Brake flushes are one of the most important maintenance tasks on your car. Brakes work by slowing or stopping your car when you apply the brakes. If you don’t flushes your brakes, your car will stop working properly and could even lead to an accident.
With that in mind, we wanted to share with you a step-by-step guide on how to do a brake flush at home. Follow these steps and you’ll be able to keep your car in top condition and avoid costly repairs down the road!
What is a Brake Flush?
A brake flush is a simple home maintenance procedure that can help your car’s braking system work more effectively. By flushing the brake lines, you free up residual moisture and debris that can cause your brakes to lock up. A brake flush is also a good way to ensure that your pads are in good condition. Here’s how to do it:
1. Remove the wheel and tire from the car. This will make it easier to access the brakes.
2. Shut off the engine and remove the fuel and air filters.
3. Use a wrench to unscrew the brake caliper bolts (the bolts that hold the caliper to the wheel). Be careful not to lose any of these screws!
4. Loosen the wheel suspension bolts (if applicable). If you have heavy items in your trunk, be sure to lift them out before starting this step so you don’t damage your car’s suspension while working on the brakes.
5. Remove the caliper by pulling it straight up and off of the wheel hub. Save the caliper mounting bracket if you need it—we’ll use it later.
How to Do a Brake Flush at Home
If you’re like most drivers, you probably don’t think much about your brakes. In fact, most people don’t even know how to do a basic brake flush. Well, it’s time to learn! A brake flush is simply cleaning and lubricating your brakes. It’s important to do this every few months or when your brakes feel squeaky or sticky. Here’s how to do a brake flush at home:
1. Park your car in a safe place with the emergency brake off.
2. Shut off the engine and remove the negative battery cable.
3. Remove the wheel hub cover and the wheel.
4. Detach the caliper from the brake arm by unscrewing the two bolts on each side of the caliper (1/4 inch bolt on one side, 5/16 inch bolt on the other).
5. Clean all of the dust, dirt, and debris from the brake pads and rotor with a shop vacuum cleaner and a brush. Wipe down all of the metal surfaces with a clean cloth or a light coating of grease-free lubricant such as WD-40.
6. Apply new brake pads and rotate them into position on the rotor.
Pros and Cons of Doing a Brake Flush at Home
There are pros and cons to doing a brake flush at home, but the majority of people who do it say it is worth the effort. The benefits of a brake flush are that it can improve braking performance, eliminate brake dust, and reduce the chance of getting brake pad corrosion. On the other hand, there are potential risks associated with doing a brake flush yourself, including getting fluid on your brakes or into your engine. If you’re unsure whether or not you should do a brake flush, consult your car’s owner’s manual or a professional mechanic.
Conclusion
If you’re ever having trouble with your brakes, don’t wait to call a mechanic. Brake flushes can be done at home, and they are incredibly useful if you find that your brakes aren’t working as well as they should. By taking care of your car’s brake pads and discs yourself, you can keep them in good condition and avoid expensive repairs down the line. If you want to learn how to do a brake flush, check out our guide below!