Automated Bleed Procedure
The automated brake bleed procedure is used on DBC-7 ABS systems. This procedure uses a Scan tool to cycle the solenoid valves and run the pump in order to purge air from the secondary circuits. The automated bleed procedure opens the secondary circuits, then allows trapped air in the BPMV to flow outwards to the individual corners, where the air is purged from the system.
IMPORTANT: The automated brake bleed procedure is required when one of the following has occurred:
- Brake Pressure Module Valve (BPMV) removal or replacement.
- Manual bleed of calipers and wheel cylinders do not obtain desired pedal height or travel.
- Extreme loss of brake fluid.
- Air ingestion is suspected.
- Master cylinder removal.
TOOLS REQUIRED
- Scan Tool
- 35 psi Pressure Bleeder with Master Cylinder Adapter, - SA 9150BR
- Delco, Supreme II (or equivalent) DOT 3 Brake Fluid
- Hoist
- Plastic Bleeder Bottle (equipped with hose to recover brake fluid)
PRELIMINARY INSPECTION AND SETUP
1. Inspect battery for full charge. Charge battery or repair charging system if battery not fully charged.
2. Connect Scan tool to DLC connector. Check and repair current or history DTC's prior to performing ABS bleed procedure.
3. Inspect for visual damage or leaks, repair as needed.
4. Connect pressure bleeding tool and pressurize to 35 psi.
5. Turn ignition switch to RUN, engine Off.
6. Raise vehicle on a suitable support.
7. Connect Scan tool and establish communication with ABS system by following these steps:
a. Press POWER
b. Press ENTER to continue.
c. Select F10: DIAGNOSTIC
d. Select Model Year - 2000
e. Select SATURN (not passenger car)
f. Select CHASSIS
g. Select CAR LINE - Z
h. "ABS braking is not available when ABS/TCS lamps are illuminated" statement will appear.
i. Select CONTINUE.
j. Select SPECIAL FUNCTIONS.
k. Select AUTOMATED BLEED. "Connect required brake bleed equipment" will appear on screen.
PERFORMING AUTOMATED BLEED PROCEDURE
1. With pressure bleed tool at 35 psi, and all bleeder screws in closed position, Select CONTINUE to start.
2. The first part of the automated bleed procedure will cycle the pump for 60 seconds. After cycling the pump, the Scan tool will go into a cool-down mode for 180 seconds, a 3 minute timer will be displayed. The automated bleed procedure will not continue until the timer has expired, and it cannot be overridden.
3. Next, the Scan tool will request technician to open the right rear bleeder screw. Once bleeder screw is opened, press START, the Scan tool will then cycle both respective release valves and pump motor for 60 seconds.
4. Once the Scan tool is done cycling the designated brake corner, close the bleeder screw prior to moving on to the next corner.
Torque: 7.5 Nm (66 inch lbs.)
5. The Scan tool will repeat step 3 for the remaining brake corners in the following order:
- Left Rear
- Right Front
- Left Front
Torque: 11 Nm (97 inch lbs.) Front
Torque: 7.5 Nm (66 inch lbs.) Rear
6. With bleeder valve still attached to vehicle, and maintaining 35 psi, open each bleeder screw for 20 seconds. This will allow any remaining air to purge out of the system.
7. Once all four bleeder screws have been opened and closed the Scan tool will display PROCEDURE COMPLETE.
Torque: 11 Nm (97 inch lbs.) Front
Torque: 7.5 Nm (66 inch lbs.) Rear
8. Release pressure from pressure bleed tool and disconnect from vehicle.
9. Depress brake pedal to gauge pedal height and travel. It may be necessary to repeat steps 1-8 if pedal feel and travel are unacceptable.
10. Remove Scan tool from DLC connector.
11. Lower vehicle.
12. Inspect brake fluid level in master cylinder reservoir, fill as needed with DOT 3 brake fluid.
13. Road test vehicle to verify proper brake pedal height and travel.