How to bleed brakes in a car

You may have heard fluid vapour or air can sometimes get into your brake fluid, lessening your braking efficiency. Bleeding your brakes is the method of opening a small valve at the brake calliper or wheel cylinder to allow a controlled amount of fluid to release, removing this fluid vapour.

At mycar, we know all about how to bleed car brakes, so we’ve put together this guide on how to do it if you know your way around cars. Let’s take a look!

What is the most common method of bleeding brakes?

Manual bleeding is the most common method of bleeding brakes. It involves using the master cylinder and brake pedals as a pump to cause fluid to flood through an open bleeder screw. Doing this requires a smooth hand so you don’t create turbulence in the fluid, which can cause foaming and a whole host of other issues. You can also use gravity, a pedal and hold method, vacuum pulling, a pressure-operated venturi or a pressure tank to bleed brakes, depending on the situation.

How much does it cost to bleed brakes?

The cost to bleed brakes can range from $80 to $300+. Your brake fluid system flush cost depends on your car, if you have performance brakes and how well you keep up with servicing your car. At mycar, we offer a Bendix front or rear brake service from $219, which includes inspecting brake fluid conditions, as well as fitting new brake pads.

How long does it take to bleed brakes?

It takes around 30 to 40 minutes for a qualified mechanic to bleed the brakes on your car, or 10 to 15 minutes per wheel. This may take longer if you’re attempting to bleed your own brakes, so be patient. You’ll also need a companion to help you with the process.

Do you really need to bleed brakes?

Yes, if your brake pedals do not feel as tight as normal, you really do need a brake bleed. Your brakes need to be working at top performance to help keep you and others safe on the road, and bleeding your brakes when needed helps do this.

What happens if you don't bleed brakes?

When you don’t bleed brakes, the air in the fluid causes the brake line to become spongy, reducing your braking power. This can create issues like:

So it’s best to get it done as soon as possible.

When to bleed brakes

When is a brake system flush necessary? If you notice your brake pedals feel spongy or no longer firm, it’s time to bleed your brakes.

How often should you flush the brake system?

You’ll need to flush your brakes roughly every 2 years or around the 45,000km mark. Keeping up with your scheduled logbook servicing will help you know when you’re due for a brake system flush to keep you safe on the road.

When changing brake pads, do you need to bleed the brakes?

As it’s common practice to open the bleeder valve and squeeze callipers when changing brake pads, you should bleed brakes when you’re performing a brake pad change. This will help to remove dirt and air in the braking system, ensuring your brakes are working as they should.

How much fluid to use when flushing car brakes

How much brake fluid to flush the system varies, but is typically around 1 L to 1.5 L. How much fluid you need to use depends how much old fluid you’re removing. This is why leaving your brake flush to a professional will ensure it’s done correctly and save you the hassle of working out how much fluid you need.

How to bleed brakes by yourself

If you’re confident you know how to bleed brakes in a car, it can be done at home. One of the most common DIT methods for bleeding brakes is called the Gravity Method, but does take time. You’ll need to:

1. Fill up the master cylinder reservoir with fresh oil

2. Starting at the wheel furthest from the master cylinder, loosen the bleed screw on the brake cylinder.

3. Leave it at least an hour before closing the bleeder and topping up the master cylinder with fluid.

4. Repeat this for each wheel and you’re good to go.

There are other faster methods, but you’ll need more specialist equipment, like a vacuum pump.

How to bleed ABS brakes

You can perform an anti-lock brake system flush like you do with any other vehicle. To bleed ABS brakes:

1. Pump the pedal to pressurise your brake system

2. Open a fluid bleeder

3. Close the same bleeder

4. Repeat on each wheel

If you’re not confident you know what to look for, it’s best to leave it up to a qualified mechanic.

How to bleed drum brakes

Learning how to flush a brake system is the same across the board for drum brakes and your ABS. To bleed drum brakes:

1. Starting with the wheel the furthest from your car’s master cylinder, open the bleeder screw

2. Replace the screw

3. Repeat on all tyres

As with all brake system flushes, if you’re not confident, our team at mycar are here to help.

Why are my brakes still squishy after bleeding?

If your brakes are still squishy after bleeding, the bleeding may not have been done correctly or your brake hose may be damaged. The best thing to do is to head to your local mycar mechanic and have them check over your brake system.

Still not sure? Drop into mycar for help

When it comes to brake systems, mycar are your local experts, with more than 260 stores throughout Australia. All new parts are protected by our Workmanship Guarantee, covering you up to 24,000km or 24 months for that peace of mind you need.

Book your brake flush or repair online or call our friendly team on 13 13 28.