Checking the tightness of the hydraulic brake system (Opel Astra J)

To prevent sudden failure of the brake system, carefully check the condition of all pipelines. Replace parts with new ones if there is the slightest doubt about their suitability. All rubber parts of brake assemblies (hoses, cuffs, etc.) regardless of their condition, replace them with new ones after 100 thousand km of mileage or 5 years of operation (whichever comes first), to prevent sudden breaks due to aging.

Note. Brake fluid is very hygroscopic - it absorbs moisture from the air, which, in addition to causing corrosion of brake system parts, lowers the boiling point of the fluid itself, which can lead to brake failure with frequent intensive braking. Therefore, we recommend replacing the brake fluid at least once every 2 years.

Check the tightness by external inspection:

• from above, from under the hood;
• from below the car (on a lift or inspection pit);
• from the sides of the car with the wheels removed.

Note: When inspecting the hydraulic drive part that operates under pressure, have an assistant.

He should press the brake pedal four or five times (in order to create pressure in the hydraulic drive) and keep it pressed until you inspect the hydraulic drive.

Inspection of a hydraulic drive without pressure is acceptable, but less effective.

(Article posted on an online resource: «OPELBOOK»)

Notes:

• If you find any leaks in the connections, tighten the clamps, plugs, and nuts.
• Replace hoses and pipelines with mechanical damage.
• If the slave cylinders are leaking, repair or replace them.

You will need: a special key for pipeline fastening nuts or a 14 mm key, a flat-blade screwdriver, and pliers.

Note: This is what special keys for pipeline fastening nuts look like.

1. Inspect the master cylinder, the connections of the pipes to the master cylinder…



2. …and the reliability of the hose connection to the clutch release drive master cylinder, installed on the reservoir nipple (if the car is equipped with a manual transmission). If the car is equipped with an automatic transmission, the nipple hole is closed with a special spring-loaded plug.





3. Inspect the connections of the pipes to the hydraulic electronic unit of the anti-lock braking system (ABS).

Note: The battery mounting shelf has been removed for clarity.

4. Check for fluid leaks from the brake pipe connections to the front…



5. …and rear brake mechanisms.

6. Carefully inspect the brake hoses. They should not have any cracks, tears or abrasions. Press the brake pedal all the way down: if there are any bulges on the hose, the braiding threads of the hose have broken and it must be replaced.





7. Inspect the hose connections to the working cylinders and the air release valves of the front brake mechanisms…



8. …and rear wheels.



9. Check the condition of the plastic pipe holders. Replace damaged holders, as their weakening or breakage leads to vibration and, as a result, to pipe breakage.