If your Ford Ranger is having brake problems, it might be time to flush the system. Flushing the brake system will remove any built-up debris or fluid that could be causing the brakes to give out. Follow these steps to flush your Ford Ranger’s brake system:
What is Fluid Wasting and How to Fix it
If you have a Ford Ranger, chances are you’ve heard of fluid wasting. Fluid wasting is when a car’s engine loses more fluid than it should over time. This can lead to a number of problems, the most common of which is a decreased level of performance. Fortunately, fixing fluid wasting is simple and can be done by following a few simple steps. Here’s what you need to know.
What is Fluid Wasting?
The most common cause of fluid wasting is a leaky or defective drainage system. Over time, this will cause the engine to lose more and more fluid, eventually leading to reduced performance and even failure. Other causes include bad gaskets, broken or incorrectly fitted hoses, and a faulty thermostat.
How to Fix Fluid Wasting in Your Ford Ranger
If you think your Ford Ranger might be suffering from fluid wasting, there are three main things you need to do: check for leaks, replace or repair any damaged components, and adjust the thermostat. To check for leaks, first make sure all the car’s fluids (petroleum-based and water) are at full pressure.
What Causes Fluid Wasting on Brakes
If you’re noticing fluid wasting on your brake system, there’s a good chance your fluid level is too low. Ford Ranger brake fluid is designed to last at least 60,000 miles and up to 100,000 miles. However, if your brake system isn’t getting enough fluid, it can cause wear and tear on the brake pads and rotors.
To make sure your brakes are in good shape, it’s important to flush them every 3-5 years or when the fluid level reaches the “max” line on the dipstick. To flush your brakes, use the following instructions:
1) Park the vehicle on a level surface
2) Close all of the windows and doors so that air will not enter the vehicle
3) Turn off both the ignition and all of the lights inside the car
4) Open both front drivers’ side door panels
5) Disconnect both positive battery cable terminals (usually black with a yellow stripe down one side) – be careful not to short them out!
6) Remove both front wheels by depressing their center caps with a lug wrench – don’t remove them completely!
7) Locate and unscrew the Brake Fluid Level Sensor (BFLS),
How to Test Brake Fluid Levels
If your brake fluid level is low, it’s important to flush the system and replace the fluid. Here’s how to test your brake fluid level andflush the system:
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface.
2. Close all of the doors and trunk.
3. Turn off the ignition.
4. Remove the front wheel(s).
5. depress the brake pedal firmly several times.
6. If there is no braking action, then the reservoir is empty and you should replace the fluid immediately. If there is some braking action but the pedal still feels soft, then add only enough new fluid to reach the “max” line on your gauge (marked “H”), wait five minutes, and repeat Step 5. If there is still no braking action after adding new fluid and waiting five minutes, then add enough new fluid to reach the “min” line on your gauge (marked “L”), wait five minutes, and repeat Step 5.
7. Replace any spilled or used fluid with fresh brake fluid and close all of the doors and trunk.
When to Replace Brake Fluid
If your brake fluid is low, you’ll want to replace it as soon as possible. Brake fluid acts as a sort of hydraulic brake booster, helping to stop your car in a timely manner. But how often should you replace your brake fluid? That answer varies depending on the make and model of your car, but typically, you’ll want to change it every 3-4 years. Another factor that affects when to replace brake fluid is the condition of your brakes: if they’re noisy or feel spongy, it’s probably time for a new batch of fluid.
Conclusion
If you are having problems with your brake system, it’s important to flush the fluid and replace any seals that may be leaking. Follow these steps to flush and replace the brake fluid in a Ford Ranger:
1) Park the vehicle on level ground
2) Remove the lower grill
3) Locate and remove the reservoir cap
4) Open the bleed screw (you may need a wrench to do this) and allow hydraulic pressure to bleed off any air from inside the lines
5) Replace the reservoir cap and bleed screw, then position grill back in place