Automotive brakes are part of a hydraulic system that depends on pressurized fluid to operate the calipers and slow down your vehicle. Low fluid levels or air bubbles inside the brake lines make the pedal feel soft and make the entire system less effective. Here are a few facts about this issue and why a brake service technician should regularly bleed the lines in your car.

What Is Brake Line Bleeding?

Over time, tiny air bubbles work their way into the fluid lines. These small pockets of air reduce the pressure inside the brake lines, causing the entire system to be less responsive when you press the pedal. In severe cases, the pedal may need to go all the way to the floor before the brakes engage.

Brake bleeding is the process of removing air bubbles by draining small amounts of fluid. As one technician opens the bleeder valve, another steps on the brake pedal, causing any air bubbles to rise and squirt out of the valve and into a waiting jar. Once certain there are no more bubbles, they will then close the valve and replace any lost fluid so your brakes respond as they should when the pedal is pressed.

What Are Signs Your Brakes Should Be Bled?

Have them serviced every two to three years. If your pedal starts to feel spongy and doesn’t offer much resistance when pressed, you may need to have the lines bled sooner.

If there are significant air bubbles in the lines, you might have to pump the brakes several times before the vehicle stops. The pedal might even have no resistance at all, which means your brakes aren’t actually doing anything. Whenever you have your oil changed or get new brake pads, have the technician do a full brake service to check for air bubbles in your lines.

If your brakes are in need of servicing, turn to the experts at Priam’s Automotive Service & Repair in Honolulu, HI. This auto shop offers customers across Oahu everything from comprehensive engine repairs to detailed brake services. Their highly trained technicians have the specialized skills to diagnose and correct almost any issue, using only the best parts on the market. Visit their website for more on their auto repair services, or call (808) 537-1919 to make an appointment today.