How to Fix Hydraulic Brakes

All automobiles are equipped with a hydraulic brake system that provides one of the most important safety features of a vehicle. A hydraulic brake system can fail for a variety of reasons. Any failure in the system can result in partial or complete loss of braking, resulting in an accident. Therefore, it is important that regular vehicle maintenance include checks of the brake system and repair of any faulty components.

Instructions

1

Examine fluid levels and master cylinder components. Fluid levels should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the brake fluid reservoir. Loss of fluid indicates a faulty system as the hydraulic brake system is a closed system. All connections and seams should be checked for any signs of leaking.

2

Trace brake lines and examine for leaks. These lines go from the brake reservoir attached to the master cylinder on the driver's side of the firewall to each individual brake mechanism on each wheel of the vehicle. The lines will be made of steel tubing and flexible hoses. Each connection should be examined carefully for leaks. Flexible hoses should be examined for cracks or fraying.

3

Replace any leaking hoses or connections. This would include any of the flexible hoses that are cracked and frayed, which could lead to a break in the hose during brake usage. Flexible brake lines can be purchased based on make and model at most auto-parts stores. However, steel tubing is usually a dealer-only item unless you purchase a length of tubing and bend it yourself to meet your vehicle's requirements.

4

Flush old fluid from system and replace with new fluid. This is accomplished by draining all of the fluid from the master cylinder and refilling with new fluid, then bleeding the brakes (see Step 5). This step helps eliminate particulates that can contaminate the fluid and the breakdown of fluid from age and heat.

5

Bleed the system and test. Start with the wheel farthest from the master cylinder and work your way toward the cylinder. You need two people for this procedure: one to step on the brake pedal and one to vent the wheel caliper or drum. Once the brakes are bled, replace the lost fluid in the master cylinder and take the vehicle for a test drive. Any squishiness or pumping necessary would indicate the brakes must be bled again.