GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 29532 Diaphragm Pressure Bleeder
    • J 35589-A Brake Pressure Bleeder Adapter

Caution: Do not move the vehicle until a firm brake pedal is obtained. Air in the brake system can cause loss of brakes with possible personal injury.

Caution: Use only SUPREME 11 or equivalent DOT 3 brake fluid from a clean, sealed container. Do not use fluid from an open container that may be contaminated with water. Improper or contaminated fluid will result in damage to components or loss of braking, with possible personal injury.

Notice: Avoid spilling brake fluid on any of the vehicle's painted surfaces, wiring, cables or electrical connectors. Brake fluid will damage paint and electrical connections. If any fluid is spilled on the vehicle, immediately flush the area with water to minimize the potential for damage.

Notice: If any brake component is repaired or replaced such that air is allowed to enter the brake system, the entire bleeding procedure must be followed.

Notice: Prior to bleeding the brakes, the front and rear displacement cylinder pistons must be returned to the topmost position. The preferred method uses a Scan Tool to perform the rehoming procedure. If a Scan Tool is not available, the second procedure may be used, but it is extremely important that the procedure be followed exactly as outlined.

  1. Apply the brakes several times with the engine off to remove the vacuum reserve.
  2. Remove the master cylinder reservoir cap. Replace it with the J 35589-A Brake Pressure Bleeder Adapter.
  3. Charge the bleeder to 210-245 kPa (30-35 psi).
  4. Connect the hose to the J 35589-A Brake Pressure Bleeder Adapter.
  5. Raise the vehicle and support. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.

  6. Object Number: 106390  Size: SH
  7. If it is necessary to bleed all of the brake calipers, the following sequence should be used:
  8. 6.1. Right rear
    6.2. Left rear
    6.3. Right front
    6.4. Left front
  9. Place the proper size box end wrench, or equivalent, over the brake caliper bleed screw. Attach a clear tube over the screw and allow the tube to hang submerged in a clear container partially filled with brake fluid.
  10. Open the brake caliper bleed screw at least ¾ of a turn and allow the brake fluid flow to continue until no air is seen in the brake fluid. Apply intermittent pressure to the brake pedal while pressure bleeding.
  11. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  12. Close the brake caliper bleed screw.
  13. Tighten
    Tighten the brake caliper bleed screw to 13 N·m (115 lb in).

  14. Repeat steps 6 through 8 until all of the calipers have been bled.
  15. Lower the vehicle.
  16. When pressure bleeding is completed, bleed the brake system using a Scan Tool. Refer to Antilock Brake System Automated Bleed Procedure in Antilock Brake System.
  17. Remove the brake bleeding equipment from the master cylinder.