Master Cylinder On-vehicle Bleeding Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Vibe. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Place a clean shop cloth under the master cylinder in order to absorb brake fluid spills.
With the ignition switch in the OFF position and the brakes cool, press the brake pedal several times in order to deplete the vacuum assist system reserve.
Clean the master cylinder.

IMPORTANT: Maintain the fluid level above the MIN mark during the bleeding procedure.

Fill the reservoir with brake fluid. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling .
Have an assistant slowly press the brake pedal and maintain pressure on the brake pedal.

Fig 1: Master Cylinder Reservoir Components

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Loosen the flare nut for the front brake pipe (3) in order to purge air from the front of the master cylinder.

NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.

Tighten the flare nut.
Tighten: Tighten the flare nut to 15.2 N.m (11.2 lb ft).
Have the assistant slowly release the brake pedal.
Wait 15 seconds.
Repeat this procedure until air is purged from the front of the master cylinder.
Remove the rear brake pipe (2) from the master cylinder.
Allow a small amount of brake fluid to drip from the open port of the master cylinder.
Install the brake pipe to the master cylinder.
Tighten: Tighten the flare nut to 15.2 N.m (11.2 lb ft).
Have the assistant slowly press the brake pedal and maintain pressure on the brake pedal.
Loosen the flare nut for the rear brake pipe in order to purge air from the rear of the master cylinder.
Tighten the flare nut.
Tighten: Tighten the flare nut to 15.2 N.m (11.2 lb ft).
Have the assistant slowly release the brake pedal.
Wait 15 seconds.
Repeat this procedure until air is purged from the rear of the master cylinder.