Driving with faulty brakes puts everyone on the road in danger, which is why the system should be routinely serviced. In addition to changing worn pads, an auto technician might find brake bleeding is needed. To understand the importance of this service, below is a brief overview of what brake bleeding is and how it helps your ride. 

What Is Brake Bleeding?

Without brake fluid, you would not get a response from pressing on the brake pedal. The liquid transfers the energy from pressing on the pedal to the braking mechanism. Air can get into lines through leaks. When you press the pedal, the movement compresses the air instead of the fluid. This means the fluid can’t transfer any force to the brakes.

Bleeding the system is meant to remove the air bubbles, which will restore the proper function of the brakes. Auto maintenance technicians can open the bleed screws and press on the pedal to allow air to escape. Auto techs can also use vacuum pumps to extract the old liquid until there are no more bubbles.

What Are the Signs Brake Bleeding Is Necessary?

A spongy sensation when pressing on the brake pedal is one telltale sign the fluid needs to be bled. If the pedal sinks to the floor, this could mean that there are bubbles in the fluid, the master cylinder has failed, or the lines might need to be replaced.

Slamming on the pedal to get a response can create excess heat that damages the hoses causing air to enter the brakes. When this happens, you might need to pump on the pedal to get a response. The pumping builds up pressure to get brakes to work, which is a signal that the brakes need to be bled. 

If you’ve noticed a change in how brakes function or it’s time for a tune-up, contact the ASE-certified staff at Dee's Auto Care Specialists. Motorists throughout the Coulee Region have sought out the center for reliable auto repairs and maintenance services since 1936. The knowledgeable, courteous team is eager to discuss car problems with clients, so they understand how their rides run. Call (608) 782-2530 for assistance in La Crosse, WI, and (608) 783-0500 for auto services in Onalaska, WI. Residents in the Winona, MN, area can call (507) 452-1115 for help. Look online for special offers and leave a review on Facebook.