how to bleed the brakes on a Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014)

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the parking brake is engaged.
• Wear safety goggles and gloves for protection.

2. Tools and Equipment Setup

• Tools Required:
  • Brake bleeder kit or clear tubing
  • Wrench (typically 10mm or 12mm)
  • Brake fluid (DOT 3 or DOT 4, as specified by the manufacturer)
  • Container for old brake fluid
• Attach the clear tubing to the bleeder screw on the brake caliper, placing the other end into the container to catch the old fluid.

3. Bleeding the Brakes

• Step 1: Start with the wheel farthest from the master cylinder (right rear).
  • Open the bleeder screw slightly using the wrench.
• Step 2: Have an assistant pump the brake pedal several times and then hold it down.
• Step 3: While the pedal is held down, tighten the bleeder screw to prevent air from being sucked back in.
• Step 4: Ask your assistant to release the brake pedal.
• Step 5: Repeat this process until no air bubbles appear in the tubing and clear brake fluid flows out.
• Step 6: Check the brake fluid reservoir frequently and add fluid as necessary to prevent it from running dry.

4. Repeat for Other Wheels

• Follow the same bleeding procedure for the left rear, right front, and finally the left front wheel, in that order.

5. Final Check

• Once all brakes are bled, ensure all bleeder screws are tightened.
• Refill the brake fluid reservoir to the appropriate level.
• Pump the brake pedal several times to ensure it feels firm.