I have a 2017 civic hatchback and was told that I need special equipment to bleed the breaks. Is this true or can I still pump the break peddle to bleed them like in older cars?...Thanks Cary
Not true, but having special equipment makes it a much faster process with consistent results.
We have a dedicated bleeding device, and can do a complete 4-wheel braking system bleed by 1 person in less than 40 seconds.
Yes, some may consider the cost of the device high, but we're moving more than 70 used vehicles/month, and for us, it's well worth it.
If you want a low-cost device that can produce good results, consider a MityVac Vacuum tool, generally less than $50.00.
@oldrangernut
while that is true, it is not completely necessary and it is not as if @Caryg can't do it. No doubt that the machine will do it much faster. but Cary was told that it can only be done with a special tool. That is not true.
@oldrangernut
I agree with OldRangerNut. Using special bleeding equipment will make the process go much smoother than doing it the "old-school" way. Using the special tools will make it a one man job and will eliminate the risk of getting air in the master cylinder (then that will be a pain in the butt) from forgetting to top up the reservoir. But if you really feel comfortable doing it the old-fashioned way, then just be careful to keep the reservoir topped up and have a second person help you...one fills the reservoir and pumps while the other bleeds out the air.
That is not true! I don't believe that is the case! As long as you don't let the air go back up from the bleed nipple, you should be fine.
@weallbroke
Thanks. That's what I thought. My original thought, when I was told this, was that the ABS or some other "new" mechanism was going to be in the way. Thanks for verifying fir me!
Agree with letting a pro do the brakes. Not worth my time doing it myself and I won't do as good of a job.
Home mechanic ? Check-out this video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ioHjV4d6BWk
