Brake System Bleeding

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2014 Honda Ridgeline, 2013 Honda Ridgeline, 2012 Honda Ridgeline, 2011 Honda Ridgeline, and 2010 Honda Ridgeline. 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 gets on the paint, wash it off immediately with water.

NOTE:

Do not reuse the drained fluid. Use only new 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 gets in 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 check 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 Brake 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: Clear Drain Tube And Bleed Screw With Torque Specifications (Front)
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.

Rear

Fig 4: Clear Drain Tube And Bleed Screw With Torque Specifications (Rear)
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.