How to Bleed Calipers on a 2008 Jeep Wrangler
Jeep produced the 2008 Wrangler in the X, Unlimited X, X RHD and Sahara trim levels. All of the Wrangler models were powered by a 202-horsepower, 3.8-liter, fuel-injected V-6 engine. The brake system used a vacuum booster to increase braking power while reducing effort at the pedal, and an anti-lock brake system for safety and improved traction control. Air bubbles trapped in the brake system can lead to spongy brakes and reduced braking performance, and must be purged to restore the brakes to their proper feel and performance.
Things You'll Need
Shop rags
Mopar DOT 3 Brake Fluid, meeting SAE J1703 requirements
Clear vinyl tubing
Open-end wrench
Clean container
Assistant
Instructions
Wipe the top of the brake fluid reservoir with a clean shop rag to remove any road grime that could contaminate the system. Remove the reservoir cap. Add fresh brake fluid until the fluid level reaches the "Full" mark. Pour some fresh fluid into a clean container.
Install a short length of clear vinyl tubing over the right rear caliper bleeder valve nipple. Lead the loose end into the clean container, and submerge the end of the hose in the brake fluid. Fit a six-point, box-end wrench onto the bleeder valve.
Instruct your helper to apply and hold steady pressure on the brake pedal, then open the bleeder valve approximately 1/2 turn to bleed the line. Close the bleeder valve and instruct your helper to release the brake pedal. Observe the fluid stream in the vinyl tubing, and repeat the bleeding process until the stream is clear and free of air bubbles. Top off the fluid level in the reservoir.
Repeat the process on the left rear, right front and left front calipers, in that order. Top off the reservoir between each wheel -- don't let it run dry, or you'll have to start all over. Test the brakes in a safe environment before entering traffic.
Tips & Warnings
DOT 4 brake fluid is an acceptable substitution if DOT 3 fluid is not available.
Do not shake up or agitate the brake fluid bottle before using the fluid. The fluid can hold air bubbles in suspension and make it difficult to bleed the brakes properly.
