Summary: It is a common question whether you should bleed brakes with engine running or not. The answer is not straightforward and depends on various factors. In this article, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of bleeding brakes with the engine running.
1. The Advantages of Bleeding Brakes with Engine Running
The main advantage of bleeding brakes with the engine running is that it can speed up the process and make it more efficient. When the engine is on, the brake booster is active, which creates a vacuum that can help draw the fluid through the system. This can make it easier to remove all the air bubbles from the system and get a firmer brake pedal feel.
In addition, bleeding brakes with the engine running can be helpful if you are working alone. Without someone to pump the brake pedal for you, it can be difficult to get all the air out of the system. With the engine running, you can use the vacuum from the brake booster to help you do the job.
Another benefit of bleeding brakes with the engine running is that it can help you identify problems in the system. If there is a leak or another issue, you may notice a drop in engine vacuum, which can alert you to a problem that needs to be fixed.
2. The Disadvantages of Bleeding Brakes with Engine Running
While bleeding brakes with the engine running can be helpful in some situations, it is not always recommended. One potential disadvantage is that it can be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. Brake fluid is highly flammable, and if it comes into contact with a hot engine component, it can ignite and cause a fire.
In addition, bleeding brakes with the engine running can put a strain on the brake system. If the pedal is pumped too quickly or too hard, it can cause damage to the master cylinder or other components. This can lead to brake failure and a dangerous situation on the road.
Finally, if you are not familiar with bleeding brakes or working on cars in general, bleeding brakes with the engine running can be difficult. It requires some knowledge of how the brake system works and how to safely bleed the system. If you are not comfortable doing this work, it is best to leave it to a professional mechanic.
3. Tips for Bleeding Brakes with Engine Running
If you decide to bleed your brakes with the engine running, there are some important tips to keep in mind. First, always make sure that the vehicle is in park or neutral and that the parking brake is engaged. This will prevent the car from rolling away while you are working on it.
Next, never pump the brake pedal too quickly or too hard. This can cause damage to the brake system and create a dangerous situation. Instead, pump the pedal slowly and steadily to avoid putting too much stress on the system.
Finally, always keep an eye out for any signs of problems while you are bleeding the brakes. If you notice any leaks, drops in engine vacuum, or other issues, stop immediately and address the problem before continuing.
Conclusion:
Ultimately, whether you should bleed brakes with engine running depends on your level of experience and comfort with working on cars. While it can be helpful in some situations, it is not always recommended and can be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. If you are not comfortable doing this work or are unsure about whether it is safe, it is best to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic who can help you properly bleed the brakes.
Always make safety your top priority and never take any unnecessary risks when working on your vehicle. By following these tips and using common sense, you can safely bleed your brakes with or without the engine running and ensure that your vehicle is safe and reliable on the road.