How often do I have to bleed the brake?

Normally always when the brake fluid is changed - that is, about every two years - or when work has been done on the system. Bleeding for no reason without a fluid change brings little; it makes sense as a fixed part of the regular fluid change.

Can I bleed the brake alone?

Yes, with a one-person bleeding device (vacuum or pressure filler) or a bleeding hose with a check valve it works without a helper. Watch meticulously that the reservoir does not run dry. With modern ABS and ESC systems, a diagnostic device may be required for complete bleeding - when in doubt, go to the workshop.

Bleeding brakes: why, when and the right order

Bleeding brakes: why, when and what matters

Bleeding brakes means flushing air and old fluid out of the brake system. Air bubbles can be compressed - unlike fluid - which is why the pedal becomes spongy and the pressure point wanders. After every brake fluid change and after any work that opened the system, bleeding is part of the deal. Here you can read why that is so important and what matters.

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Why air in the system makes the pedal soft

A brake works because fluid transfers the pedal force to the calipers virtually loss-free - fluid is incompressible. If air gets into the system, part of the pedal travel is used up just to compress the air bubble. The pedal feels soft, can be pressed deeper and the pressure point is no longer clearly defined.

Air gets into the system during a fluid change, when opening lines or calipers, and when the reservoir has been run dry.

When bleeding is necessary

After every brake fluid change.
After work on a caliper, line or master cylinder.
When the pedal goes soft or spongy (air or fluid fade).
Before an intensive track day season as a freshening cure.

What matters when bleeding

What matters is the right order - usually from the caliper with the longest line route toward the master cylinder - and that the reservoir never runs dry, otherwise the brake draws air again. Always use fresh, matching brake fluid and catch the old one cleanly. For track day use, a durable racing brake fluid with a high wet boiling point is additionally worth it. On ABS and ESC vehicles, a diagnostic device may be needed for complete bleeding.

Frequently asked questions

How often do I have to bleed the brake?: Normally always when the brake fluid is changed - that is, about every two years - or when work has been done on the system. Bleeding for no reason without a fluid change brings little; it makes sense as a fixed part of the regular fluid change.
Can I bleed the brake alone?: Yes, with a one-person bleeding device (vacuum or pressure filler) or a bleeding hose with a check valve it works without a helper. Watch meticulously that the reservoir does not run dry. With modern ABS and ESC systems, a diagnostic device may be required for complete bleeding - when in doubt, go to the workshop.

Next step

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