2016 Toyota Corolla L 4 speed automatic
1.8L 2ZR-FE
60,000 miles
I flush my brake fluid the common way at each wheel with the bleeder valve starting furthest from the brake fluid reservoir. Then pump the brakes to send new fluid from reservoir to the bleeder valve. The service manual says I need a scan tool to cycle fresh fluid into the ABS module. This means the ABS system is closed and only opens when activated. But I don’t have a scanner. Can I skip the step to cycle the ABS if I change the brake fluid every 30,000 miles or 3 years? I last changed my brake fluid at 32k miles.
If cycling fresh fluid into ABS is required, can I do it effectively without the scanner using the following method:
I live in the north. What if I change the brake fluid around the winter time during a snow day. I can change the fluid, drive in the snow and activate the ABS several times, then change the brake fluid a second time. I just don’t know if all 4 ABS valves will cycle during this activity. Maybe I should stop hard in the snow going forward and also in reverse. Alternatively, a gravel road will work for those without snow. Or is it not necessary if I’m changing the fluid every 30,000 miles?
Financial consideration for other readers:
Shop wants $100 for brake fluid change. Autel Maxicheck Pro scanner has ABS auto bleed function costs $189. Including cost of fluid, it would take about 2 services to recoup investment of scanner purchase.
Thank you!
no I don't think your idea will work. Normal ABS activation is not the same as an ABS flush process.
I would just pay the shop $100 to do it for me. The process literally takes seconds. Doing the whole bleed procedure myself is hardly worth my trouble.
If you didn't replace any ABS parts, and you don't think there's any air in the system, then you don't have to bleed the ABS.
