What to do when your car blows a brake line?
Brake lines should be inspected regularly, especially on older vehicles that have seen many winters. Have your auto repair shop check your lines for corrosion, crimps or leaks whenever you have your oil changed or have other mechanical work done, and replace any lines that show signs of problems to avoid this unsafe situation.
Do you have to open brake lines when replacing hoses?
Part of the series: Replacing Front Brake Hoses. Make sure to open brake lines when replacing front brake hoses to drain brake system but do not let the master cylinder go dry. Open brake lines when replacing front brake hoses with the tips in this free video on car repair from a professional mechanic.
How do you remove the brake hose on the passenger side?
To remove a brake hose on the passenger side of a car, use a socket wrench to loosen the brake hose bracket. Remove the brake hose on the passenger side of a car with the tips in this free video on car repair from a professional mechanic.
What happens when you hit the brake line?
Brake line failures are rare, but they can be extremely dangerous and very scary when you’re behind the wheel. When you hit the brake pedal, you create pressure that moves the brake fluid through the lines and activates the calipers, creating the braking action.
What happens when your car blows a brake line?
This is because brake systems consist of two circuits: either front/rear or diagonal (right front/left rear and left front/right rear). When a line blows, only one circuit is damaged and the other circuit still functions. Pumping the pedal can build up pressure in the lines and give you a little bit more braking action.
Part of the series: Replacing Front Brake Hoses. Make sure to open brake lines when replacing front brake hoses to drain brake system but do not let the master cylinder go dry. Open brake lines when replacing front brake hoses with the tips in this free video on car repair from a professional mechanic.
What to do if you bleed all the brakes?
If your bleeding all the brakes, start with the brake line that’s furthest from the brake fluid reservoir. That’ll be the right hand rear wheel on most cars. If your car or truck has one brake line feeding both rear wheels, you’ll need to bleed both of these first before moving to the passenger side front (next closest).
When is it time to replace my brake lines?
Upon inspection, you’ll be able to spot any deformations in a metal hose easily. Warning signs that a brake line has already become compromised include fluid leakage, an illuminated “Brake” system warning light, and corrosion of metal. Other than feeling wonky brake action when you step on the pedal, these will be easiest signs to see.