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Home >> Cadillac >> 2003 >> Escalade EXT >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 633 (Antilock Brake System, Traction Control System & Stability Control System) >> Repair Instructions >> ABS Automated Bleed Procedure
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ABS Automated Bleed Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Cadillac CTS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION: Refer to Brake Fluid Irritant Caution in Cautions and Notices.
NOTE: Refer to Brake Fluid Effects on Paint and Electrical Components Notice in Cautions and Notices.
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) or Hydraulic Brake System Bleeding (Pressure) in Hydraulic Brakes. The automated bleed procedure is recommended when one of the following conditions exist:
  • Base brake system bleeding does not achieve the desired pedal height or feel
  • Extreme loss of brake fluid has occurred
  • 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

    NOTE: 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.
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove all four tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  3. Inspect the brake system for leaks and visual damage. Refer to Symptoms - Hydraulic Brakes in Hydraulic Brakes. Repair or replace components as needed.
  4. Lower the vehicle.
  5. Inspect the battery state of charge. Refer to Battery Inspection/Test in Engine Electrical.
  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. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  10. Following the directions given on the scan tool, pressure bleed the base brake system. Refer to Hydraulic Brake System Bleeding (Manual) or Hydraulic Brake System Bleeding (Pressure) in Hydraulic Brakes.
  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:
  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. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  17. Inspect the brake fluid level. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling in Hydraulic Brakes.
  18. Road test the vehicle while inspecting that the pedal remains high and firm.
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