McCulla

I assume I need to open the brake fluid reservior cap to allow me to push the pistons back into the calipers, right? I also assume that I should tighten it up between wheels?? or can I leave it open to go corner to corner and just close it up tight as I finish the job? Thanks!

johnwb

If you are changing pads one wheel at a time you shouldn't need to remove the cap. I have never needed to. I just pump the brake pedal between changing pads on each wheel. That moves the brake fluid back into the caliper that you just worked on. Then you'll be able to depress the pistons on the next wheel. Give it a try.

rijowysock

i always unscrew it but leave it on top, do them all, make sure doesnt overflow and then bleed and bed them all at once.

McCulla

Thank you!

mdrums

I swap out the pads all the time and never take of the brake fluid reservior cap.

Coochas

Agreed.
You don't need to and you don't want to expose the hygroscopic brake fluid to any unnecessary atmospheric moisture.

McCulla

message received...thanks again!

Bob Rouleau

After you change pads check for excess brake fluid which comes out of the breather after you pump the pedal.

acadian_dad

You may want to check the fluid level in the reservoir after each corner if the level is not obviously low. My dealer had topped up the fluid on me with my nearly completely worn pads ... when I was putting on my new track pads, I just happened to check after the 3rd wheel and it was starting to overflow ... bit of a mess to clean up ...

Edgy01

I suck old fluid out of the reservoir before I start a brake bleeding job--before I drag all that crap through the system. I put in fresh.

McCulla

Thank you for all the great info!

Paul S.

That right there, is the number 1 reason not to uncap the brake fluid reservoir. I've changed pads for years on my Porsche and never touched the brake fluid reservoir cap. Only reason I can see for ever removing it, is when flushing the brake fluid. Otherwise, leave it be.