Brake Bleeding: Service and Repair

Bleeding brake system

Bleeding guidelines
Mechanical bleeding is usually sufficient when overhauling or replacing brake calipers. If the brake pedal is depressed during this operation, no brake fluid will flow out of the system.
The brake system can be bled both mechanically and by means of overpressure.

Note! After a brake caliper is repaired it only needs to be bled for a short time; longer in the case of repairs to the master cylinder and ABS module.

Brake fluid quality
Use only original Volvo brake fluid with the (minimal) code DOT 4+. Never re-use brake fluid. Always store brake fluid in its original packaging, carefully closed.

Preparing for bleeding
The ignition must be switched off.
Clean the cap of the brake fluid reservoir and the surrounding area.
Remove filler cap.

Bleeding brake system by overpressure
Connect the bleed unit to the brake fluid reservoir. Follow the manufacturers' instructions for connecting and using the unit.

Bleeding brake system

Note! Begin bleeding with one of the rear wheels.

Bleed in the following order:
- Rear right
- Rear left
- Front right
- Front left




Depress the brake pedal several times, so that any air bubbles in the master cylinder are removed.
Remove the protective cap from the bleed nipple and connect the transparent hose to the collecting bottle.
Twist the bleed nipple open and tighten it again if no more air bubbles can be seen in the emerging and clear fluid.
Tighten the bleed nipple.
Tightening torque: 5 Nm.
Remove hose from bleed nipple and replace protective cap.

Inspecting brake system after bleeding




Remove the bleed system.
Check whether there is still air in the system by depressing the brake pedal with a force equivalent to normal braking.
The pedal stroke should not exceed 40 mm with the engine turned off and after the brake pedal has been depressed 3-4 times. Bleed again if the pedal stroke exceeds 40 mm.
Check the brake system for leakage.
Check the brake fluid level.
Clean up the spilled brake fluid.