How to Replace a Jeep Brake Line

Aside from keen attentiveness and caution, brakes prevent the greatest number of accidents on the road. Shoddy or ineffective brakes can stem from a multitude of mechanical failures, all of which you can attend to with some thoughtful tinkering and minimal mechanical expertise. In addition to providing you with your greatest tool against potential accidents, replacing a Jeep's brake line can also satisfy your desire to complete a somewhat challenging do-it-yourself type project.

Instructions

1

Locate the master cylinder reservoir under the hood on the driver's side of the engine compartment. The reservoir is labeled "Brakes" and is about the size of a gallon milk container with a screw-on cap on the top.

2

Top off the brake fluid and seal the cap. This will limit the amount of brake fluid lost during the replacement process.

3

Raise the Jeep with a 2-1/2 ton jack, drive your Jeep onto a set of car ramps or use a car lift.

4

Remove the front driver's side tire with a tire iron to access the brake line and caliper.

5

Shape the replacement brake line to match the existing brake line as much as possible by bending it manually. Brake lines are pliable and can be shaped by hand. This will reduce strain on the line while you are driving.

6

Unscrew the two bolts connecting the existing brake line to the brake line hose with a line wrench.

7

Unscrew the bolt connecting the brake line to the end opposite the brake line hose.

8

Attach the replacement brake line by first screwing in the end with the bolt opposite the end of the brake line hose. This will help you avoid stretching the replacement brake line.

9

Bleed the brake line system of air by opening the caliper's valve, attaching a tube to the valve and placing the other end into a container with brake fluid. Press the brake pedal several times to flush the lines of air.

10

Repeat the above steps for all the brake lines that need to be replaced.

11

Reattach the wheels then lower the Jeep off of the jack stand with the jack.