Brake Fluid: Service and Repair

Brake fluid

Note! The illustrations in this service information are used for different model years and/or models. Some variation may occur. However, the essential information in the illustrations is always correct.

Guidelines and background

Guidelines for brake fluid replacement
It is recommended that brake fluid is changed every other year. On cars that are exposed to heavy and frequent braking, for example, mountain driving or driving in tropical climates with high humidity, the brake fluid must be changed every year.

Background




The oil must be replaced because it is hygroscopic (the fluid absorbs water molecules from the air). This absorption of water occurs through the brake hoses and brake fluid reservoir. These components are rubber and plastic respectively and are not completely sealed against water molecules. An increased water content in the brake fluid dramatically reduces its boiling point and causes corrosion in the brake system components. This results in damage to the brake system. Braking performance deteriorates markedly.

Note! Use only Volvo Genuine Parts brake fluid designated DOT 4+. Never reuse brake fluid. Always keep the brake fluid sealed in the original packaging.

Note! Continually check that there is sufficient brake fluid in the brake fluid reservoir when changing brake fluid.

Preparatory work

Switch off the ignition.
Remove all four wheels.

Replacement

Changing the brake fluid, front




Remove the protective cap from the bleed nipple.
Install a plastic hose on the nipple.
Open the bleed nipple.
Collect the brake fluid in a container.
Press the brake caliper piston to the bottom of the caliper.
Use G-clamp as illustrated.
Leave the G-clamp in pushed in position.




Alternative 1:
Connect the bleeding unit. See: Brake system bleeding Service and Repair.
Open the bleed nipple on the caliper. Wait until there is new oil in the plastic hose.
Close the bleed nipple
Alternative 2:
Press down the brake pedal to the limit position.
Keep it pressed down for approximately 2 seconds before releasing it.
Repeat until there is new brake fluid in the plastic hose.
Close the bleed nipple when the brake pedal is fully depressed.
Remove the hose. Install the protective cap.
Remove the G-clamp from the brake caliper.
Repeat the process on the other front wheel. Install the wheel. See: Wheels Service and Repair.

Replacing brake fluid, rear




Remove the brake caliper. See.
Press the piston into the brake caliper. Use: 999 5782 Press tool 999 5782 Press Tool replace 5782-1 with: 999 7091 Spanner 999 7091 Spanner.
Remove the protective cap from the bleed nipple.
Install the plastic hose on the nipple. Open the bleed nipple.
Collect the brake fluid in a container.
Alternative 1:
Connect the bleeding unit. See: Brake system bleeding Service and Repair.
Open the bleed nipple on the caliper. Wait until there is new oil in the plastic hose.
Close the bleed nipple.
Alternative 2:
Press down the brake pedal to the limit position. Keep it pressed down for approximately 2 seconds before releasing it.
Repeat until there is new brake fluid in the plastic hose.
Close the bleed nipple when the brake pedal is fully depressed.
Remove the hose and install the protective cap.
Remove the tool.
Install the brake caliper. See. Repeat the process on the other rear wheel.
Install the wheel. See: Wheels Service and Repair.