How to Bleed the Brakes on a 2002 Chevrolet S-10

Chevrolet offered the 2002 S10 pickup truck in the base and LS trim packages. Both sub-models came stock with a 2.2-liter, inline four-cylinder engine that produced 120 horsepower and 140 foot-pounds of torque. A 4.3-liter V-6 was available as an option. Rear-wheel drive came standard on all S-10 models, but both sub-models could be equipped with four-wheel drive.

Things You'll Need

  • Shop rag
  • Delco Supreme 11 DOT 3 Brake Fluid or equivalent
  • Small container
  • Box-end wrench set
  • 1/4-inch inside diameter clear vinyl hose
  • Park the S10 on firm ground. Turn the ignition switch to the "Off" position and allow the brakes to cool completely. Pump the brake pedal until the pedal becomes firm, to release any residual booster pressure. Wipe the brake fluid reservoir cap, using a clean shop rag, then remove the cap and the diaphragm from the reservoir. Add fresh brake fluid until the fluid level in the reservoir reaches the "Full" mark.

  • Pour a small amount of fresh brake fluid in a small, clean container. Install a box-end wrench and a length of 1/4-inch I.D. clear tubing on the rear passenger-side brake bleeder nipple. Submerge the loose end of the hose in the container of fresh brake fluid.

  • Instruct your helper to apply and hold steady pressure on the brake pedal. Open the caliper bleeder valve approximately 1/2 turn until the brake pedal bottoms out. Observe the fluid stream in the clear tubing. Close the bleeder valve and instruct your helper to release the brake pedal and allow it to return to the full up position. Allow the system to rest for approximately 15 seconds. Repeat the bleeding procedure until the fluid stream is clear and free of bubbles. Check and top off the fluid level in the reservoir as necessary.

  • Repeat the bleeding procedure on the remaining calipers in the following order; driver-side rear, passenger-side front, then driver-side front. Top off the reservoir after each wheel. Double-check all four bleeder valves for tightness. Fill the reservoir to the "Full" mark. Install the reservoir diaphragm and cap. Wipe up any spilled brake fluid.

  • Push on the brake pedal to test the feel of the brakes. Repeat the bleeding procedure if the brakes still feel spongy. Check for leaks. Turn the ignition switch to the "On" position, but do not start the engine. Watch to make sure the brake warning lamp goes out. Have the vehicle scanned and repaired before operating it if the brake warning lamp remains illuminated.