GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Notice: Prior to bleeding the brakes, the front and rear displacement cylinder pistons must be returned to the topmost position. The preferred method uses a Scan Tool to perform the rehoming procedure. If a Scan Tool is not available, the second procedure may be used, but it is extremely important that the procedure be followed exactly as outlined.

Important: Bleed the ENTIRE brake system if air has entered the hydraulic brake system through either of the following conditions:

   • The master cylinder brake fluid level is at the bottom of the master cylinder reservoir.
   • Any part of the hydraulic brake system is opened between the master cylinder and any of the brake caliper flexible hoses.

Brake System Bleeding with a Scan Tool (Preferred Method)

Tools Required

Scan Tool

Important: The Motor Rehome function cannot be performed if current DTCs are present. If DTCs are present, repair the vehicle and clear the DTCs before performing the Motor Rehome function.

  1. Use a scan tool to perform the Motor Rehome function.
  2. Bleed the hydraulic brake system. Refer to Brake System Pressure Bleeding or Brake System Manual Bleeding.

Brake System Bleeding without a Scan Tool

Notice: This method can only be used if the amber ABS warning indicator is not illuminated and no DTCs are present.

  1. Remove your foot from the brake pedal.
  2. Start the engine and allow the engine to run for at least 10 seconds.
  3. Observe the ABS warning indicator.
  4. • If the ABS indicator is ON, diagnose the antilock brake system malfunction. Refer to Diagnostic System Check - ABS in Antilock Brakes.
    • If the ABS indicator turns ON for approximately 3 seconds, then turns OFF and stays OFF, turn the ignition OFF and got to Step 4.
  5. Remove your foot from the brake pedal.
  6. Start the engine and allow the engine to run for at least 10 seconds.
  7. Observe the ABS warning indicator.
  8. • If the ABS indicator turns ON and stays ON, diagnose the antilock brake system malfunction. Refer to Diagnostic System Check - ABS in Antilock Brakes.
    • If the ABS indicator turns ON for approximately 3 seconds, then turns OFF and stays OFF, turn the ignition OFF and bleed the entire brake system. Refer to Brake System Pressure Bleeding or Brake System Manual Bleeding.

Brake System Pressure Bleeding Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 29532 Diaphragm Type Brake Bleeder
    • J 35589 Brake Bleeder Adapter

Notice: Pressure bleeding equipment must be of the diaphragm type. It must have a rubber diaphragm between the air supply and the brake fluid to prevent air, moisture, and other contaminants from entering the hydraulic system.

Notice: Avoid spilling brake fluid on any of the vehicle's painted surfaces, wiring, cables, or electric connectors. Brake fluid will damage the paint and the electrical connections. If any fluid is spilled on the vehicle, flush the area to lessen the damage.

  1. Inspect and fill the master cylinder reservoir to the proper level as necessary. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling .

  2. Object Number: 498972  Size: SH
  3. Assemble the components as shown.
  4. Install the J 35589 to the master cylinder reservoir.
  5. Connect the J 29532 to the J 35589 .
  6. Adjust the J 29532 to 35-70 kPa (5-10 psi).
  7. Wait approximately 30 seconds, then inspect the entire hydraulic brake system in order to ensure that there are no existing brake fluid leaks. Repair any brake fluid leaks.
  8. Adjust the J 29532 to 205-240 kPa (30-35 psi).

  9. Object Number: 363390  Size: MH
  10. Install a clear plastic bleeder hose to the ABS modulator REAR bleeder valve (1).
  11. Submerge the opposite end of the clear plastic bleeder hose in a clean container partially filled with clean brake fluid.
  12. Slowly open the ABS modulator bleeder valve in order to allow the brake fluid to flow.
  13. Close the ABS modulator bleeder valve when air bubbles are no longer detected in the fluid.
  14. Remove the clear plastic bleeder hose from the ABS modulator bleeder valve.
  15. Tighten
    Tighten the previously bled ABS modulator bleeder valve to 9 N·m (80 lb in).

  16. Install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the ABS modulator RIGHT FRONT bleeder valve (2).
  17. Repeat Steps 9 through 12.

  18. Object Number: 363395  Size: MH

    Important: Use a shop cloth in order to catch escaping brake fluid.

  19. Slowly open the FRONT ABS modulator brake pipe fitting (1) in order to allow the brake fluid to flow.
  20. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  21. Close the ABS modulator brake pipe fitting when air bubbles are no longer detected in the brake fluid.
  22. Tighten
    Tighten the ABS modulator brake pipe fitting to 24 N·m (18 lb ft).

  23. Repeat Steps 15 and 16 for the remaining ABS modulator brake pipe fittings in the order shown.
  24. If the vehicle is equipped with traction control, go to Step 19. If the vehicle is NOT equipped with traction control, go to Step 29.

  25. Object Number: 363397  Size: SH
  26. Install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the TCS modulator RIGHT side bleeder valve (1).
  27. Submerge the opposite end of the clear plastic bleeder hose in a clean container partially filled with clean brake fluid.
  28. Slowly open the TCS modulator bleeder valve in order to allow the brake fluid to flow.
  29. Close the TCS modulator bleeder valve when air bubbles are no longer detected in the brake fluid.
  30. Remove the clear plastic bleeder hose from the TCS modulator bleeder valve.
  31. Tighten
    Tighten the previously bled TCS modulator bleeder valve to 9 N·m (80 lb in).

  32. Install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the TCS modulator LEFT side bleeder valve (2).
  33. Repeat Steps 20 through 23.

  34. Object Number: 363402  Size: SH

    Important: Use a shop cloth in order to catch the escaping brake fluid.

  35. Slowly open the TCS modulator RIGHT side brake pipe fitting (1) in order to allow the brake fluid to flow.
  36. Close the TCS modulator brake pipe fitting when air bubbles are no longer detected in the brake fluid.
  37. Tighten
    Tighten the TCS modulator brake pipe fitting to 24 N·m (18 lb ft).

  38. Repeat Steps 26 and 27 for the remaining TCS modulator brake pipe fittings in the order shown.
  39. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.

  40. Object Number: 368810  Size: SH
  41. Install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the RIGHT REAR bleeder valve:
  42. • For DOMESTIC vehicles, install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the wheel cylinder bleeder valve.
    • For EXPORT vehicles, install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the brake caliper bleeder valve.

    Object Number: 368812  Size: SH
  43. Submerge the opposite end of the clear plastic bleeder hose in a clean container partially filled with clean brake fluid.
  44. Slowly open the bleeder valve in order to allow the brake fluid to flow.
  45. Close the bleeder valve when air bubbles are no longer detected in the brake fluid.
  46. Tighten
    Tighten the bleeder valve.

    • For DOMESTIC vehicles, tighten the wheel cylinder bleeder valve to 7 N·m (62 lb in).
    • For EXPORT vehicles, tighten the brake caliper bleeder valve to 11 N·m (97 lb in).
  47. Remove the clear plastic bleeder hose from the bleeder valve.

  48. Object Number: 180325  Size: SH
  49. Install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the LEFT FRONT brake caliper bleeder valve.
  50. Submerge the opposite end of the clear plastic bleeder hose in a clean container partially filled with clean brake fluid.
  51. Slowly open the bleeder valve in order to allow the brake fluid to flow.
  52. Close the bleeder valve when air bubbles are no longer detected in the brake fluid.
  53. Tighten
    Tighten the brake caliper bleeder valve to 13 N·m (115 lb in).

  54. Remove the clear plastic bleeder hose from the bleeder valve.

  55. Object Number: 368811  Size: SH
  56. Install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the LEFT REAR bleeder valve.
  57. • For DOMESTIC vehicles, install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the wheel cylinder bleeder valve.
    • For EXPORT vehicles, install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the brake caliper bleeder valve.

    Object Number: 368813  Size: SH
  58. Submerge the opposite end of the clear plastic bleeder hose in a clean container partially filled with clean brake fluid.
  59. Slowly open the bleeder valve in order to allow the brake fluid to flow.
  60. Close the bleeder valve when air bubbles are no longer detected in the brake fluid.
  61. Tighten
    Tighten the bleeder valve.

    • For DOMESTIC vehicles, tighten the wheel cylinder bleeder valve to 7 N·m (62 lb in).
    • For EXPORT vehicles, tighten the brake caliper bleeder valve to 11 N·m (97 lb in).
  62. Remove the clear plastic bleeder hose from the bleeder valve.

  63. Object Number: 368815  Size: SH
  64. Install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the RIGHT FRONT brake caliper bleeder valve.
  65. Submerge the opposite end of the clear plastic bleeder hose in a clean container partially filled with clean brake fluid.
  66. Slowly open the bleeder valve in order to allow the brake fluid to flow.
  67. Close the bleeder valve when air bubbles are no longer detected in the brake fluid.
  68. Tighten
    Tighten the brake caliper bleeder valve to 13 N·m (115 lb in).

  69. Remove the clear plastic bleeder hose from the bleeder valve.
  70. Lower the vehicle.
  71. Remove the J 35589 from the master cylinder reservoir.
  72. Inspect and fill the master cylinder reservoir to the proper level as necessary. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling .
  73. Install the master cylinder reservoir cap.
  74. Start the engine and allow the engine to run for at least 10 seconds.
  75. Turn the ignition OFF.
  76. Inspect the brake pedal feel and the brake pedal travel. Refer to Brake Pedal Travel .
  77. • If the brake pedal feels firm and constant and the brake pedal travel does not exceed specifications, go to Step 57.
    • If the pedal feels soft or the brake pedal travel exceeds specifications, DO NOT DRIVE THE VEHICLE. Go to Step 58.
  78. Start the engine and inspect the brake pedal feel.
  79. • If the brake pedal still feels firm, got to Step 60.
    • If the brake pedal feels soft, DO NOT DRIVE THE VEHICLE. Go to Step 58.
  80. Use the scan tool in order to perform the following functions:
  81. 58.1. Release, then apply each ABS motor 3 times.
    58.2. Cycle each ABS solenoid 10 times.
    58.3. Apply the ABS front and rear motors in order to ensure that the ABS modulator pistons are in the full up position.
  82. Ensure that the unacceptable brake pedal feel/travel is not caused by misadjusted brake linings or other mechanical failures, then repeat the Brake System Pressure Bleeding procedure. Go to Step 1.
  83. Caution: Do not move the vehicle until a firm brake pedal is obtained. Failure to obtain a firm pedal before moving vehicle may result in personal injury.

  84. Road test the vehicle. Make several normal (non-ABS) stops from a moderate speed in order to ensure proper brake system function. Allow adequate brake system cooling time between stops.

Brake System Manual Bleeding Procedure

Notice: Avoid spilling brake fluid on any of the vehicle's painted surfaces, wiring, cables, or electric connectors. Brake fluid will damage the paint and the electrical connections. If any fluid is spilled on the vehicle, flush the area to lessen the damage.

Important: This procedure may require the help of an assistant to apply the brake pedal while the bleeder valves are opened and closed.

Important: Ensure that the master cylinder brake fluid level does not drop to the bottom of the master cylinder reservoir. You will be instructed to Inspect and fill the master cylinder reservoir at times during this procedure. However, the actual frequency of master cylinder reservoir filling REQUIRED will depend on the amount of fluid that is released. If the brake fluid level drops to the bottom of the master cylinder reservoir, start the bleed procedure again at Step 1.

  1. Inspect and fill the master cylinder reservoir to the proper level as necessary. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling .

  2. Object Number: 363390  Size: MH
  3. Install a clear plastic bleeder hose to the ABS modulator REAR bleeder valve (1).
  4. Submerge the opposite end of the clear plastic bleeder hose in a clean container partially filled with clean brake fluid.
  5. Open the ABS modulator bleeder valve.
  6. Press and hold the brake pedal approximately 75 percent of a full stroke.
  7. Close the ABS modulator bleeder valve.
  8. Release the brake pedal.
  9. Repeat Steps 4 through 7 until brake fluid begins to flow.
  10. Remove the clear plastic bleeder hose from the ABS modulator bleeder valve.
  11. Install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the ABS modulator FRONT bleeder valve (2).
  12. Repeat Steps 4 through 9.
  13. The ABS modulator is now PRIMED ONLY.

  14. If the vehicle is equipped with traction control, go to Step 13. If the vehicle is NOT equipped with traction control, go to Step 24.

  15. Object Number: 363397  Size: SH
  16. Install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the TCS modulator RIGHT side bleeder valve (1).
  17. Submerge the opposite end of the clear plastic bleeder hose in a clean container partially filled with clean brake fluid.
  18. Open the TCS modulator bleeder valve.
  19. Press and hold the brake pedal approximately 75 percent of a full stroke.
  20. Close the TCS modulator bleeder valve.
  21. Release the brake pedal.
  22. Repeat Steps 15 through 18 until brake fluid begins to flow.
  23. Remove the clear plastic bleeder hose from the TCS modulator bleeder valve.
  24. Install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the TCS modulator LEFT side bleeder valve (2).
  25. Repeat Steps 15 through 20.
  26. The TCS modulator is now PRIMED ONLY.

  27. Inspect and fill the master cylinder reservoir to the proper level as necessary. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling .
  28. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.

  29. Object Number: 368810  Size: SH
  30. Install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the RIGHT REAR bleeder valve.
  31. • For DOMESTIC vehicles, install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the wheel cylinder bleeder valve.
    • For EXPORT vehicles, install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the brake caliper bleeder valve.

    Object Number: 368812  Size: SH
  32. Submerge the opposite end of the clear plastic bleeder hose in a clean container partially filled with clean brake fluid.
  33. Open the bleeder valve.
  34. Press and hold the brake pedal approximately 75 percent of a full stroke.
  35. Close the bleeder valve.
  36. Release the brake pedal.
  37. Repeat Steps 27 through 30 until air bubbles are no longer detected in the brake fluid.
  38. Tighten
    Tighten the bleeder valve.

    • For DOMESTIC vehicles, tighten the wheel cylinder bleeder valve to 7 N·m (62 lb in).
    • For EXPORT vehicles, tighten the brake caliper bleeder valve to 11 N·m (97 lb in).
  39. Remove the clear plastic bleeder hose from the bleeder valve.

  40. Object Number: 180325  Size: SH
  41. Install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the LEFT FRONT brake caliper bleeder valve.
  42. Submerge the opposite end of the clear plastic bleeder hose in a clean container partially filled with clean brake fluid.
  43. Open the bleeder valve.
  44. Press and hold the brake pedal approximately 75 percent of a full stroke.
  45. Close the bleeder valve.
  46. Release the brake pedal.
  47. Repeat Steps 35 through 38 until air bubbles are no longer detected in the brake fluid.
  48. Tighten
    Tighten the brake caliper bleeder valve to 13 N·m (115 lb in).

  49. Remove the clear plastic bleeder hose from the bleeder valve.

  50. Object Number: 368811  Size: SH
  51. Install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the LEFT REAR bleeder valve.
  52. • For DOMESTIC vehicles, install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the wheel cylinder bleeder valve.
    • For EXPORT vehicles, install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the brake caliper bleeder valve.

    Object Number: 368813  Size: SH
  53. Submerge the opposite end of the clear plastic bleeder hose in a clean container partially filled with clean brake fluid.
  54. Open the bleeder valve.
  55. Press and hold the brake pedal approximately 75 percent of a full stroke.
  56. Close the bleeder valve.
  57. Release the brake pedal.
  58. Repeat Steps 43 through 46 until air bubbles are no longer detected in the brake fluid.
  59. Tighten
    Tighten the bleeder valve.

    • For DOMESTIC vehicles, tighten the wheel cylinder bleeder valve to 7 N·m (62 lb in).
    • For EXPORT vehicles, tighten the brake caliper bleeder valve to 11 N·m (97 lb in).
  60. Remove the clear plastic bleeder hose from the bleeder valve.

  61. Object Number: 368815  Size: SH
  62. Install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the RIGHT FRONT brake caliper bleeder valve.
  63. Submerge the opposite end of the clear plastic bleeder hose in a clean container partially filled with clean brake fluid.
  64. Open the bleeder valve.
  65. Press and hold the brake pedal approximately 75 percent of a full stroke.
  66. Close the bleeder valve.
  67. Release the brake pedal.
  68. Repeat Steps 51 through 54 until air bubbles are no longer detected in the brake fluid.
  69. Tighten
    Tighten the brake caliper bleeder valve to 13 N·m (115 lb in).

  70. Remove the clear plastic bleeder hose from the bleeder valve.
  71. Lower the vehicle.
  72. Inspect and fill the master cylinder reservoir to the proper level as necessary. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling .
  73. Install the master cylinder reservoir cap.

  74. Object Number: 363390  Size: MH
  75. Install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the ABS modulator REAR bleeder valve (1).
  76. Submerge the opposite end of the clear plastic bleeder hose in a clean container partially filled with clean brake fluid.
  77. Open the ABS modulator bleeder valve.
  78. Press and hold the brake pedal approximately 75 percent of a full stroke.
  79. Close the ABS modulator bleeder valve.
  80. Release the brake pedal.
  81. Repeat Steps 62 through 65 until air bubbles are no longer detected in the brake fluid.
  82. Remove the clear plastic bleeder hose from the ABS modulator bleeder valve.
  83. Tighten
    Tighten the previously bled ABS modulator bleeder valve to 9 N·m (80 lb in).

  84. Install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the ABS modulator FRONT bleeder valve (2).
  85. Repeat Steps 62 through 67.

  86. Object Number: 363395  Size: MH

    Important: Use a shop cloth in order to catch escaping brake fluid.

  87. Open the ABS modulator brake pipe fitting (1).
  88. Press and hold the brake pedal approximately 75 percent of a full stroke.
  89. Close the ABS modulator brake pipe fitting.
  90. Release the brake pedal.
  91. Repeat Steps 70 through 73 until air bubbles are no longer detected in the brake fluid.
  92. Tighten
    Tighten the ABS modulator brake pipe fitting to 24 N·m (18 lb ft).

  93. Repeat Steps 70 through 74 for the remaining ABS modulator brake pipe fittings in the order shown.
  94. If the vehicle is equipped with traction control, go to Step 77. If the vehicle is NOT equipped with traction control, go to Step 93.

  95. Object Number: 363397  Size: SH
  96. Install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the TCS modulator RIGHT side bleeder valve (1).
  97. Submerge the opposite end of the clear plastic bleeder hose in a clean container partially filled with clean brake fluid.
  98. Open the TCS modulator bleeder valve.
  99. Press and hold the brake pedal approximately 75 percent of a full stroke.
  100. Close the TCS modulator bleeder valve.
  101. Release the brake pedal.
  102. Repeat Steps 79 through 82 until air bubbles are no longer detected in the brake fluid.
  103. Remove the clear plastic bleeder hose from the TCS modulator bleeder valve.
  104. Tighten
    Tighten the previously bled TCS modulator bleeder valve to 9 N·m (80 lb in).

  105. Install the clear plastic bleeder hose to the TCS modulator LEFT side bleeder valve (2).
  106. Repeat Steps 79 through 84.

  107. Object Number: 363402  Size: SH

    Important: Use a shop cloth in order to catch the escaping brake fluid.

  108. Open the TCS modulator RIGHT side brake pipe fitting (1).
  109. Press and hold the brake pedal approximately 75 percent of a full stroke.
  110. Close the TCS modulator brake pipe fitting.
  111. Release the brake pedal.
  112. Repeat Steps 87 through 90 until air bubbles are no longer detected in the brake fluid.
  113. Tighten
    Tighten the TCS modulator brake pipe fitting to 24 N·m (18 lb ft).

  114. Repeat Steps 87 through 91 for the remaining TCS modulator brake pipe fittings in the order shown.
  115. Inspect and fill the master cylinder reservoir to the proper level as necessary. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling .
  116. Install the master cylinder reservoir cap.
  117. Start the engine and allow the engine to run for at least 10 seconds.
  118. Turn the ignition OFF.
  119. Inspect the brake pedal feel and the brake pedal travel. Refer to Brake Pedal Travel .
  120. • If the brake pedal feels firm and constant and the brake pedal travel does not exceed specifications, go to Step 98.
    • If the pedal feels soft or the brake pedal travel exceeds specifications, DO NOT DRIVE THE VEHICLE. Go to Step 99.
  121. Start the engine and inspect the brake pedal feel.
  122. • If the brake pedal still feels firm, got to Step 100.
    • If the brake pedal feels soft, DO NOT DRIVE THE VEHICLE. Go to Step 99.
  123. Ensure that the unacceptable brake pedal feel/travel is not caused by misadjusted brake linings or other mechanical failures, then repeat the Brake System Manual Bleeding procedure. Go to Step 1.
  124. Caution: Do not move the vehicle until a firm brake pedal is obtained. Failure to obtain a firm pedal before moving vehicle may result in personal injury.

  125. Road test the vehicle. Make several normal (non-ABS) stops from a moderate speed in order to ensure proper brake system function. Allow adequate brake system cooling time between stops.