Your brakes are crucial to the safety and performance of your vehicle, which is why regular brake service is so critical. An often overlooked brake service is bleeding the brake fluid, which keeps them working smoothly. Below is a guide to what this process is and why it’s so important to have an auto mechanic perform it.

What Is Brake Bleeding? 

When a mechanic bleeds your brakes, they discharge the brake fluid to get rid of air in the braking system. It’s done for each wheel on your vehicle, and without this service, air can accumulate in your system over time. Air bubbles and pockets prevent the brakes from working as they should, as they interfere with the hydraulic pressure needed to press the brake pads against the rotors and stop your vehicle. Neglecting this brake service could lead to inefficient braking or your brakes failing entirely while driving, creating an unsafe situation.

How Is This Brake Service Done?

Brake bleeding can be done by a quality automotive diagnostic and repair shop. While methods may vary, the most common one involves using a specific tool to slightly loosen the bleed screw on the brakes of one tire, then affixing a rubber hose over the screw. The other end of the hose rests in a jar with a small amount of clean brake fluid in it. Another person in the vehicle pumps the brake pedal until they feel resistance, then the bleed screw is loosened and the fluid is drained as they press the pedal to the floor. 

When it reaches the floor, the screw is quickly tightened back up and the pedal is released. Brake fluid is topped up, and the next same process happens with the next wheel until all are complete. The different tires have to be bled in a specific order that can vary between vehicles.

How Can I Tell If My Brakes Need To Be Bled?

The main sign of air in your brake system is a lack of resistance in the brake pedal, as the air interferes with the appropriate pressure in the system. You may also experience a delayed reaction when you press the pedal or it may take longer to get your car to come to a complete stop. Sometimes, you’ll have to pump your brakes to get them to work correctly. You should also have them bled if it’s been three or more years since you last had it done. Brakes that are acting unusually should always be checked by an automotive diagnostic and repair shop as soon as possible to prevent issues. 

Do you need brake service to keep your vehicle functional? With over a decade of experience, Elite Automotive Repair in Mountain Home, AR, can take care of all your brake needs. Their auto mechanics are ASE-certified and will provide brake services, oil changes, tire rotations, A/C and body repairs, and painting services. Keep up with their hours and specials online, and call (870) 580-0757 to arrange a service time.