Replacing brake fluid (Opel Vectra A)

Brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air through the pores of the hoses, as well as through the ventilation hole. Because of this, its boiling point decreases during operation. Under heavy load on the brakes, vapor locks may even form in the brake pipes, significantly impairing the action of the brakes.

Brake fluid should be replaced once a year, regardless of mileage. At the service station, a special installation is used to replace brake fluid and remove air. The volume of fluid during replacement is about 500 cm³ per wheel.

Observe safety precautions when working with brake fluid (see the "Brake fluid" section in previous chapter).

Pump out approximately 10 mm of brake fluid from the reservoir.

Caution! Do not empty the tank, otherwise air will enter the system.

Fill the reservoir with fresh brake fluid up to the "MAX" mark.

Connect a clean hose to the air bleed valve of the right rear brake caliper, place a suitable container underneath.

Open the valve and press the brake pedal about 10 times to release the old brake fluid.

Tighten the valve and add the required amount of fresh fluid to the tank.

In the same way, pump out the old brake fluid from the remaining brake calipers.

Caution! Release the brake fluid until the escaping fluid is clear and free of air bubbles.

Take the old brake fluid to a special collection point.