Brake System Bleeding

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Honda Pilot, 2010 Honda Pilot, and 2009 Honda Pilot. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Do not spill brake fluid on the vehicle, it may damage the paint; if brake fluid does contact the paint, wash it off immediately with water.

NOTE:

Do not reuse the drained fluid. Use only clean Honda DOT 3 Brake Fluid from an unopened container. Using a non-Honda brake fluid can cause corrosion and shorten the life of the system.
Make sure no dirt or other foreign matter is allowed to contaminate the brake fluid.
The reservoir connected to the master cylinder must be at the MAX (upper) level mark at the start of the bleeding procedure, and checked after bleeding each wheel location. Add fluid as required.

Make sure the brake fluid level in the reservoir (A) is at the MAX (upper) level line (B).

Fig 1: Identifying Brake Fluid Level In Reservoir
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Have someone slowly pump the brake pedal several times, then apply steady pressure.
Start the bleeding at the driver's side of the front brake system.
NOTE: Bleed the calipers in the sequence shown.

Fig 2: Identifying Bleeding Sequence
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Attach a length of clear drain tube (A) to the bleed screw (B), then loosen the bleed screw to allow air to escape from the system. Then tighten the bleed screw securely.
Front

Fig 3: Attaching Length Of Clear Drain Tube To Bleed Screw - Front With Torque Specifications
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.

Rear

Fig 4: Attaching Length Of Clear Drain Tube To Bleed Screw - Rear With Torque Specifications
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Refill the master cylinder reservoir to the MAX (upper) level line.
Repeat the procedure for each brake circuit until there are no air bubbles in the fluid.