How to Replace a Brake Line in a Pontiac Bonneville

Factory brake lines are rubber and can cause inconsistent braking or become damaged over time. For the discontinued Pontiac Bonneville, finding replacement parts can be difficult. You may need to have a mechanic help you locate the correct replacement part.

Things You'll Need

  • Brake fluid
  • Jack and jack stands
  • Tire iron
  • Replacement brake line
  • Line wrenches
  • Tube
  • Container
  • Top off the brake fluid in the reservoir and tighten the cap to minimize fluid loss while replacing the brake line. The Bonneville's brake fluid reservoir is located on the driver's side rear corner.

  • Remove the wheel after safely supporting the car on jack stands. Locate the brake line and trace the section you'll remove, starting from the brake hose.

  • Study the section of brake line, paying special attention to how it is bent. Bend the replacement line the same way. You may need to bend the replacement line more, or possibly cut it if it is longer.

  • Disconnect the bolts at each end of the line to remove it. Use two line wrenches to remove the two bolts on each connector. Disconnect the end on the brake hose first.

  • Install the new line so you attach the brake hose end last. Thread the bolts by hand and then tighten with the line wrenches.

  • Remove any air from the system. Open the bleeder valve on the brake caliper and connect a tube to a container of brake fluid. Have another person purge the air by pressing down on the pedal.

  • Attach the Bonneville's wheel and continue with the wheel on the other side. Top off the brake fluid level and test the brakes after replacing all the lines.