Brake Bleeding: Service and Repair

Brake system bleeding

Note! Bleeding an ABS brake system takes longer than bleeding a normal brake system.

Guidelines for bleeding




When reconditioning or replacing brake calipers bleed the relevant brake pipe as follows.
The brake pedal must be depressed throughout the operation. This is so that the brake system is not drained of brake fluid.
If the braking system has been completely or partly drained, bleed the whole system. A bleeding unit that can pressurize the brake system to 0.2-0.3 MPa must be used.

Note! Use only Volvo Genuine brake fluid (Volvo DOT 4+). Never reuse brake fluid. Always keep brake fluid well sealed in its original packaging.

Preparations




Switch off the ignition.
Clean around the brake fluid reservoir filler cap.
Take out the special brake fluid collection bottle.

Connect the bleeding unit




Connect bleeding unit to brake fluid reservoir. Follow manufacturer's instructions for connecting and using bleeding unit.
Pressurize the brake system. Check the brake fluid reservoir connector.
Raise the car and remove the wheels.

Bleeding left front wheel (right wheel on right-hand drive)




Remove the protective cap from the bleed nipple. Connect the hose from the collection bottle.
Open the bleed nipple. Close it when there are no more air bubbles in the fluid coming out of the hose.
Tighten the bleed nipple.
Remove the hose from the bleed nipple. Reinstall the protective cap.

Bleeding other wheels
Continue to bleed the other wheels as for the left front wheel
Check for leakage from the bleed nipples.

Depressurize the brake system




Close the cock on the pressure line. Open a nipple and close it again.

Checking for air in the brake system and for brake fluid leakage
See: Brake pipe master cylinder / ABS unit, replacing Brake Pipe Master Cylinder / ABS Unit, Replacing.