Don't forget to bleed the brake system
During the operation of the car, from time to time we are forced to buy a set of new brake discs or pads. It is also worth checking the technical condition of the brake system for leaks and checking the quality of the brake fluid.
Brake fluid should be checked every two years. Therefore, replacing the components of the brake system is the best opportunity to check it and replace it if necessary. Air and water in the brake system is a major safety hazard.
Where is the air in the brake system? For example, due to old brake fluid vapors with a high water content left after replacing brake system components, or due to leaking or damaged brake system components. Replacement and bleeding of the system must be carried out in a workshop with appropriate service facilities and ensuring the disposal of old brake fluid, which is a substance hazardous to the environment.
Remember that different brake fluids must not be mixed. Also, don't swap them. If there was DOT 3 fluid in the system, the use of DOT 4 or DOT 5 can damage or dissolve the rubber elements of the system, advises Marek Godziska, Technical Director of Auto-Boss in Bielsko.
How to effectively bleed the brake system? “Bleeding the brakes is pretty easy. However, if we are not sure if our skills are sufficient, let's leave the job to a mechanic. If we feel strong enough to carry out this process on our own, let's stick to the instructions strictly. When air is released, the tank must be filled with liquid, and we must ensure the correct air release sequence. Let's check if the vent valves are rusty or dirty. If so, clean them with a brush and spray with rust remover before opening. After opening the valve, the brake fluid should flow out until you see air bubbles and the fluid is clear. On non-ABS vehicles, we start with the wheel farthest from the brake pump (usually the right rear wheel). Then we deal with the left rear, right front and left front. In vehicles with ABS, we start bleeding from the master cylinder. If we do not have a special device for changing the brake fluid, then we will need the help of a second person, ”explains Godzeszka.
