STS AWD V8-4.6L VIN A (2006)
Brake Bleeding: Service and Repair
Antilock Brake System Automated Bleed Procedure
ABS Automated Bleed Procedure
Caution: Refer to Brake Fluid Irritant Caution in Service Precautions.
Notice: Refer to Brake Fluid Effects on Paint and Electrical Components Notice in Service Precautions.
Important: Before performing the ABS Automated Bleed Procedure, first perform a pressure bleed of the base brake system. Refer to Hydraulic
Brake System Bleeding (Manual) Hydraulic Brake System Bleeding (Pressure) in Hydraulic Brakes. The automated bleed procedure is recommended
when one of the following conditions exist:
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Base brake system bleeding does not achieve the desired pedal height or feel
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Extreme loss of brake fluid has occurred
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Air ingestion is suspected in the secondary circuits of the brake modulator assembly
The ABS Automated Bleed Procedure uses a scan tool to cycle the system solenoid valves and run the pump in order to purge any air from the
secondary circuits. These circuits are normally closed off, and are only opened during system initialization at vehicle start up and during ABS
operation. The automated bleed procedure opens these secondary circuits and allows any air trapped in these circuits to flow out toward the brake
corners.
Performing the Automated Bleed Procedure
1.
Raise and support the vehicle.
Notice: The Auto Bleed Procedure may be terminated at any time during the process by pressing the EXIT button. No further Scan Tool prompts
pertaining to the Auto Bleed procedure will be given. After exiting the bleed procedure, relieve bleed pressure and disconnect bleed equipment per
manufacturers instructions. Failure to properly relieve pressure may result in spilled brake fluid causing damage to components and painted
surfaces.
2. Remove all four tire and wheel assemblies.
3. Inspect the brake system for leaks and visual damage.
4. Lower the vehicle.
5. Inspect the battery state of charge.
6. Install a scan tool.
7. Turn the ignition ON, with the engine OFF.
8. With the scan tool, establish communications with the ABS system. Select Special Functions. Select Automated Bleed from the Special Functions
menu.
9. Raise and support the vehicle.
10. Following the directions given on the scan tool, pressure bleed the base brake system.
11. Follow the scan tool directions until the desired brake pedal height is achieved.
12. If the bleed procedure is aborted, a malfunction exists. Perform the following steps before resuming the bleed procedure:
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If a DTC is detected, refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle See: Powertrain Management/Computers and Control
Systems/Testing and Inspection/Diagnostic Trouble Code Descriptions, and diagnose the appropriate DTC.
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If the brake pedal feels spongy, perform the conventional brake bleed procedure again.
13. When the desired pedal height is achieved, press the brake pedal to inspect for firmness.
14. Lower the vehicle.
15. Remove the scan tool.
16. Install the tire and wheel assemblies.
17. Inspect the brake fluid level.
18. Road test the vehicle while inspecting that the pedal remains high and firm.
