For owners and DIY mechanics working on a 2011 Ford Escape, brake bleeding can sometimes present a challenge, especially when dealing with the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Typically, a 2011 Ford Escape Diagnostic Scan Tool is recommended to properly cycle the ABS pump and ensure all air is purged from the system. However, what do you do if you don’t have access to such a tool?
This guide, inspired by a resourceful forum post, outlines a method to successfully bleed the brakes on your 2011 Ford Escape without relying on a diagnostic scan tool. While a scan tool offers the most straightforward and manufacturer-recommended approach, this DIY technique can be a viable alternative in certain situations.
Understanding the Challenge: ABS and Brake Bleeding
The ABS in your 2011 Ford Escape is designed to prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking, enhancing safety. When bleeding brakes, especially after major hydraulic work like replacing hoses or components of the ABS system, air can become trapped within the ABS module. This trapped air can be difficult to remove through traditional bleeding methods alone because the ABS pump and valves may need to be activated to allow fluid to flow through all channels.
Normally, a diagnostic scan tool designed for your 2011 Ford Escape is used to command the ABS pump to cycle during the bleeding process. This ensures that air is pushed out from the ABS module and into the brake lines, where it can then be bled out at the calipers. Without this scan tool activation, air can remain trapped, leading to a spongy brake pedal and reduced braking performance.
The DIY Solution: Pressure Bleeding with Key Cycling
This method leverages a pressure bleeder and a clever technique of cycling the ignition key to encourage the ABS pump to operate, mimicking the function of a scan tool in a limited capacity. It’s important to note that this is a workaround and should be approached with caution and a good understanding of your vehicle’s brake system.
Disclaimer: Working on your vehicle’s brake system can be dangerous. If you are not comfortable performing this procedure or are unsure about any step, it is highly recommended to seek assistance from a qualified professional mechanic.
Here’s how to perform a DIY brake bleed on your 2011 Ford Escape without a diagnostic scan tool:
1. Preparation and Tools:
- New brake fluid DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to your owner’s manual for the correct type)
- Pressure bleeder (like a coolant pressure tester with an inflatable bladder or a dedicated brake bleeder)
- Wrench or socket to open and close bleeder screws
- Clear tubing and a container to collect old brake fluid
- Jack and jack stands to safely lift your 2011 Ford Escape
- Wheel chocks
- Shop towels or rags
2. Pressurize the Brake Reservoir:
- Ensure your 2011 Ford Escape is parked on a level surface and securely chocked.
- Locate the brake fluid reservoir under the hood. Clean the reservoir cap area to prevent debris from entering the system.
- Carefully remove the brake fluid reservoir cap.
- Attach your pressure bleeder to the reservoir. If using a coolant pressure tester with an inflatable bladder, ensure it seals the reservoir neck tightly.
- Pump the pressure bleeder to approximately 30 PSI. Do not exceed the pressure rating of your system or pressure bleeder.
3. Cycle the Key (Ignition):
- With the pressure maintained at 30 PSI, cycle the ignition key to the “ON” position (without starting the engine) and then turn it “OFF.” Repeat this key cycling process several times (around 10-15 times). This action can sometimes trigger the ABS pump to run briefly during its self-check, helping to build pressure in the accumulator.
4. Bleed Each Wheel:
- Start bleeding at the wheel furthest from the master cylinder. Typically, this sequence is:
- Right Rear
- Left Rear
- Right Front
- Left Front
- For each wheel:
- Locate the bleeder screw on the brake caliper.
- Attach a clear tube to the bleeder screw and submerge the other end in a container partially filled with old brake fluid (this prevents air from being drawn back into the system).
- Open the bleeder screw slightly.
- Observe the brake fluid flowing through the clear tube. Bleed until you see clear, bubble-free fluid.
- Close the bleeder screw before releasing the brake pedal (if you have an assistant pumping the pedal – this is not necessary with a pressure bleeder).
- Continuously monitor the brake fluid level in the reservoir and ensure it remains full and the pressure is maintained at 30 PSI throughout the bleeding process.
5. Repeat Key Cycling and Bleeding:
- After bleeding all four wheels once, return to cycling the ignition key another 5-10 times to further encourage any trapped air in the ABS to move into the brake lines.
- Re-bleed each wheel again, following the same sequence, until you are confident that all air is removed and you see only clear, bubble-free fluid at each bleeder screw.
6. Final Steps and Test Drive:
- After the final bleed, ensure all bleeder screws are properly tightened to the manufacturer’s recommended torque.
- Remove the pressure bleeder and refill the brake fluid reservoir to the “MAX” level.
- Securely replace the reservoir cap.
- Carefully lower your 2011 Ford Escape and remove the wheel chocks.
- Perform a test drive in a safe area to check brake pedal feel. The pedal should feel firm and responsive. If the pedal still feels spongy, you may need to repeat the bleeding process or consult a professional.
7. Re-pressurize if Necessary:
- As mentioned in the original forum post, you might need to re-pressurize the system and cycle the key again if the initial test drive indicates a drop in accumulator pressure or spongy brakes.
Important Considerations and Cautions
- Fluid Type: Always use the correct type of brake fluid specified for your 2011 Ford Escape (DOT 3 or DOT 4). Mixing fluid types can damage your brake system.
- Air in the System: If the brake pedal remains spongy after bleeding, there may still be air trapped in the system, or there could be other issues.
- ABS Module Issues: This DIY method is designed for bleeding air. It will not fix a malfunctioning ABS module or other mechanical issues within the brake system. If you suspect a problem with your ABS module, a diagnostic scan tool is essential for proper diagnosis and repair.
- Professional Recommendation: For optimal brake system maintenance and ABS bleeding, using a 2011 Ford Escape diagnostic scan tool is generally recommended. This DIY method is a workaround for situations where a scan tool is not readily available.
- Safety First: Brakes are a critical safety system. If you are uncomfortable with any part of this procedure, seek professional help.
While this DIY brake bleeding method for a 2011 Ford Escape without a scan tool can be effective, it’s crucial to proceed with caution and ensure you understand each step. Always prioritize safety and consult a professional mechanic if you have any doubts or encounter issues. Using a diagnostic scan tool remains the most reliable and recommended method for comprehensive brake bleeding, especially when dealing with ABS systems.
