The braking system is one of the most important components on your vehicle. Improper maintenance not only can lead to expensive damage but also may cause brake failure and possible injury to yourself and others. Repairing cracked or leaky brake lines is a necessary step to ensure the safety of your vehicle for its occupants and others who are driving on the road.
Instructions
- 1
Remove the wheel to reach the braking system and hoses. Position a floor jack under the vehicle near the wheel on which you intend to work, raise the vehicle so that the tire is off the ground and then twist off the lug nuts with a tire wrench. Pull the tire off the car.
2Locate the brake line hose. This line runs from the wheel well and connects directly to the brake caliper over the brake pad. Spray lubricant where the hose attaches to any part of the vehicle and allow it to set in. This includes where the hose attaches to the brake caliper and any rusty clips or attachments.
3Use a properly sized flare nut wrench or "line wrench" to loosen all hose fittings. This type of wrench is designed to fit snugly over the hose fittings to minimize damage when tightening or removing the hoses.
4Remove the brake line and block the exposed openings coming from the wheel well and the brake caliper to prevent brake fluid from draining from the car.
5Connect the replacement hose and secure all attachments. Replace any washers or clips that are worn or damaged.
6Bleed all air from the brake lines and replace any fluid that was lost. Fill the master cylinder reservoir with brake fluid so the fluid level is between the "Min" and "Max" marks. Allow the lines to drain from the connection between the hose and brake caliper. This will remove all air from the system.
7Test the brakes on your car before driving on the open road. Pump the brakes several times while making sure the brake caliper firmly presses against the brake pad. Drive a short distance on a remote road or in a parking lot and apply the brakes several times to make sure they work properly.
