Replace / Flush / Bleed / Change Brake Fluid on a Mazda 3, 6, CX-5 or any vehicle for that matter

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of replacing, flushing, bleeding, or changing brake fluid on a Mazda 3, 6, CX-5, or any vehicle. Regular maintenance of your brake fluid is crucial for ensuring optimal braking performance and safety. This step-by-step guide will cover the necessary tools, safety precautions, and detailed procedures.

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

1. Gather Tools and Materials

   • Mityvac (recommended tool for brake fluid replacement)
   • Valvoline synthetic brake fluid (DOT 3 or DOT 4)
   • Car jack and jack stands
   • Safety gear (gloves, safety glasses, mask)
   • Wrench set for brake bleeder screws

2. Jack Up the Car

   • Park the car on a level surface.
   • Use the car jack to raise the vehicle and position jack stands under it for safety.
   • For guidance, refer to the video on how to jack up a car safely here.

3. Remove the Tires

   • Take off the tires to access the brake components easily.

Step 2: Flush Out Old Brake Fluid

1. Locate the Brake Fluid Reservoir

   • Open the hood and find the brake fluid reservoir.

2. Remove Old Brake Fluid

   • Use the Mityvac to extract old brake fluid from the reservoir.
   • Ensure the reservoir is empty before proceeding.

3. Add New Brake Fluid

   • Pour new Valvoline synthetic brake fluid into the reservoir until it reaches the marked level.

Step 3: Bleed the Brake System

1. Locate the Bleeder Screws

   • Identify the bleeder screws on each brake caliper. They are usually located near the top of the caliper.

2. Attach the Mityvac

   • Connect the Mityvac to the bleeder screw using the appropriate hose.

3. Open the Bleeder Screw

   • Use a wrench to carefully open the bleeder screw.
   • Allow the old fluid and air to be sucked out by the Mityvac until clear fluid flows.

4. Close the Bleeder Screw

   • Once clear fluid is flowing, close the bleeder screw tightly to prevent air from entering.

5. Repeat for All Brakes

   • Repeat this process for each wheel, starting from the farthest wheel from the master cylinder (usually the right rear) to the nearest (left front).

Step 4: Final Steps

1. Check Brake Fluid Level

   • After bleeding all brakes, ensure the brake fluid reservoir is filled to the proper level.

2. Reinstall Tires

   • Put the tires back on and ensure they are securely fastened.

3. Lower the Vehicle

   • Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle using the car jack.

4. Test the Brakes

   • Before driving, pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure proper pressure and responsiveness.

Conclusion

You have successfully replaced and bled the brake fluid in your vehicle. Regular maintenance of brake fluid helps ensure safe driving. For future maintenance, consider checking your brake fluid levels regularly and replacing it every couple of years or as recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer. Always prioritize safety and consult professionals if you're unsure about any steps in the process.