How to Repair a Leaky Brake Line

Iskandar Blogger 4:59 PM
How to Repair a Leaky Brake Line

Just like any part of your car, brake lines are subject to wear and tear. As a result, they can develop leaks over time. The leak may not be bad at first. However, if left unattended, a leaking brake line can lead to serious problems. It also poses a safety risk. With these steps, though, you can repair the brake line and be back on the road in a matter of a couple of hours.

Instructions

Prepare Your Vehicle

    1

    Loosen the lug nuts on the front tires if you have front wheel brakes. If you have rear wheel brakes, loosen the lug nuts on the back wheels.

    2

    Jack up the vehicle and set it on jack stands.

    3

    Remove the tires. You want to be able to see the brake lines attached to the brake caliper, which rests over the rotor.

    4

    Open the hood and locate the master cylinder. This is usually located on the right-hand side of the engine, near the front windshield. You should see the brake fluid reservoir tank.

Isolate the Problem

    5

    Locate the the source of the leak by running your finger along the brake line, moving away from the master cylinder. The source of the leak will be easy to locate in this manner because your finger will, in all likelihood, come away wet. You will also probably feel where the line is worn or frayed.

    6

    Double-check to make sure where, on the master cylinder, the damaged line connects to.

    7

    Mark the line with chalk or a piece of duct tape so you know which line you will have to replace.

Replace the Line

    8

    Loosen the end of the brake line attached to the master cylinder using a line wrench.

    9

    Loosen the other end of the brake line attached to the brake caliper using the line wrench. Use a drip pan to collect any brake fluid that leaks out.

    10

    Attach the end of the replacement brake line to the brake caliper. Use your fingers to get it started then switch to the line wrench to tighten it completely. Repeat this step, attaching the other end to the master cylinder.

    11

    Bleed the brake line by having someone step on the brakes. Make sure all air is released. When all the air is released, the brake pedal should feel firm under your foot when you pump it.

    12

    Fill the master cylinder with brake fluid.

    13

    Reinstall the tires, tighten the lug nuts, remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle with the jack. Test the brakes by pumping them a few times.