Brake Bleeding Service Cost Breakdown
Standard Brake Bleeding
Typical time: 30-45 minutes
Estimated cost: $62.50 - $93.75
Includes basic brake fluid flush and bleeding of all four corners using traditional methods.
Pressure Brake Bleeding
Typical time: 45-60 minutes
Estimated cost: $93.75 - $125.00
Includes professional pressure bleeding equipment for more thorough air removal and fluid replacement.
ABS Brake Bleeding
Typical time: 60-90 minutes
Estimated cost: $125.00 - $187.50
Includes specialized diagnostic equipment to cycle ABS pump and ensure complete system bleeding.
Two-Person Manual Brake Bleeding
Typical time: 45-60 minutes
Estimated cost: $93.75 - $125.00
Traditional method requiring two technicians for thorough bleeding of the system.
Note: Additional costs may apply if brake fluid replacement is needed or if system complications are discovered during service. All prices based on our standard rate of $125/hour.
Additional Considerations:
- Brake fluid cost is typically additional
- Some luxury or exotic vehicles may require additional time
- Severely contaminated systems may require multiple bleeding sessions
How to Bleed Brakes: Step-by-Step Guide
Bleeding brakes is a crucial maintenance procedure that removes air from your brake lines, ensuring optimal brake performance. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to properly bleed your brakes.
Required Tools and Materials:
- Brake fluid (check your vehicle manual for the correct type)
- Brake bleeder wrench
- Clear plastic tube
- Glass jar
- Helper
- Jack and jack stands
- Wheel wrench
Step-by-Step Procedure:
1. Preparation
Safety First:Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and lift the vehicle using a jack. Secure it with jack stands.
2. Locate Bleeder Screws
Find the bleeder screws on each brake caliper or wheel cylinder. They're typically located on the highest point of the caliper.
3. Bleeding Sequence
Follow this order:
- Right rear brake
- Left rear brake
- Right front brake
- Left front brake
4. Master Cylinder Check
Check the master cylinder reservoir and fill it with new brake fluid.Important:Monitor the fluid level throughout the process and never let it run dry.
5. Bleeding Process
For each wheel:
- Attach the clear tube to the bleeder screw
- Place the other end in a jar containing a small amount of brake fluid
- Have your helper pump the brake pedal 3-4 times and hold it down
- Open the bleeder screw to release fluid and air
- Close the screw before your helper releases the pedal
- Repeat until no air bubbles appear in the tube
6. Final Steps
- Ensure all bleeder screws are properly tightened
- Top off the master cylinder reservoir
- Test the brake pedal for firmness
- Lower the vehicle
- Test brakes at low speed before normal driving
Warning:If you're unsure about performing this procedure, please consult a professional mechanic. Proper brake function is crucial for vehicle safety.
Note:Some modern vehicles may require a scan tool or special procedures for brake bleeding. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions.
Regular brake maintenance, including bleeding when necessary, helps ensure your vehicle's braking system operates safely and effectively. If you notice any issues with your brakes, such as a soft pedal or reduced braking performance, don't hesitate to have them inspected by a professional.
What is Brake Bleeding
Brake bleeding is a maintenance procedure that removes air bubbles from your vehicle's hydraulic braking system. This process ensures your brakes work efficiently and safely by maintaining proper brake fluid pressure throughout the system.
Why is Brake Bleeding Important
Air in your brake lines can cause:
- Spongy brake pedal feel- Making your brakes less responsive
- Reduced braking power- Creating unsafe driving conditions
- Increased stopping distance- Putting you and others at risk
- Complete brake failure- In extreme cases
When Should Brakes Be Bled
Brake bleeding should be performed:
- After any brake line repairs or replacements
- When brake fluid becomes contaminated
- When brake pedal feels spongy
- During routine brake fluid changes (typically every 2-3 years)
The Brake Bleeding Process
Our professional technicians follow a systematic process to ensure all air is removed from your brake system:
- Inspect the entire brake system
- Add new brake fluid to the master cylinder
- Systematically bleed each brake caliper or wheel cylinder
- Test brake pedal feel and pressure
- Road test to ensure proper brake operation
Safety Note:While brake bleeding can be done at home, we recommend having it performed by certified professionals to ensure your braking system functions properly and safely.
Common Failure Symptoms of Hydraulic Brake Systems: Warning Signs You Need to Bleed Your Brakes
Brake Bleeding: Signs of Failure and Maintenance Schedule
Signs That Your Brakes Need Bleeding:
Spongy Brake Pedal: If your brake pedal feels soft or sinks to the floor with little resistance, this is often the first sign that air has entered your brake lines.
Increased Stopping Distance: When your vehicle takes longer than usual to come to a complete stop, this could indicate air in the brake lines reducing hydraulic pressure.
Brake Pedal Goes to Floor: If your brake pedal sinks all the way to the floor before engaging, this is a serious sign that brake bleeding is needed immediately.
Brake Warning Light: While this can indicate various issues, a brake warning light combined with other symptoms may signal the need for brake bleeding.
Typical Service Schedule:
Regular Maintenance: Under normal conditions, brake bleeding should be performed every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first.
After Brake Work: Brake bleeding should be performed any time the brake system is opened for repairs or component replacement.
Vehicle Age Considerations:
- Newer vehicles (0-5 years): Every 3 years
- Mid-age vehicles (5-10 years): Every 2 years
- Older vehicles (10+ years): Annually or as needed
Special Circumstances: More frequent brake bleeding may be necessary if you:
- Drive in mountainous areas
- Frequently tow heavy loads
- Notice any of the failure signs listed above
- Have recently been in an accident
Safety Note: If you experience any signs of brake system failure, seek professional service immediately. Proper brake function is crucial for vehicle safety.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
