Modern vehicles, like the Hyundai Kona, are equipped with sophisticated Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS). This advancement, while enhancing safety, has introduced complexities into routine maintenance tasks such as brake fluid replacement. Traditionally, a straightforward bleed at each wheel cylinder was sufficient. However, with ABS, many mechanics and DIY enthusiasts believe specialized tools are indispensable to ensure air is purged from the entire system, including the ABS modulator.
Interestingly, a forum discussion highlighted a factory air bleed procedure for the Kona that seemingly bypasses the need for proprietary scan tools to cycle the ABS pump. This procedure, outlined in a leaked factory service manual excerpt, begins with a conventional pressure bleeding approach. It advises disconnecting the negative battery terminal and then pressure bleeding each brake caliper for 15 seconds at 43-51psi, while diligently replenishing the master cylinder. This initial step, using a pressure bleeder – a type of Car Brake Fluid Replacement Tool Pump – is aimed at flushing the majority of the old fluid from the system.
The procedure then details an “Air Bleeding Mode” activation sequence. This involves a series of steps performed inside the vehicle: setting the front wheels straight, engaging Parking mode, and then a specific combination of holding the ESC OFF switch while pumping the brake pedal ten times, followed by engine start and further ESC OFF switch manipulation. The vehicle’s indicator lamps (ESC OFF, EBD/ABS, and parking brake/brake lamp) are used to confirm entry into this mode. While the exact mechanics of this “Air Bleeding Mode” without a dedicated car brake fluid replacement tool pump manipulating the ABS are not fully explained in the excerpt, it suggests a method to potentially cycle the ABS valves without external software commands.
Following this, the manual surprisingly recommends a traditional manual bleeding step, requiring an assistant to pump the brake pedal. This final step, seemingly contradicting the earlier pressure bleeding, raises questions about the overall efficiency and necessity of the preceding steps. While pressure bleeders and vacuum bleeders, both categorized as car brake fluid replacement tool pump types, are generally favored for their efficiency and reduced risk of master cylinder damage compared to pedal pumping, this factory procedure includes both methods.
Despite the intriguing Kona procedure suggesting a workaround, the value of a dedicated car brake fluid replacement tool pump, particularly one capable of ABS cycling, remains significant for comprehensive brake fluid replacement across various vehicle makes and models. These tools ensure thorough bleeding, especially in complex ABS systems, offering peace of mind and potentially a more effective fluid replacement compared to methods relying solely on pressure bleeders and in-car procedures. For workshops and serious DIYers, investing in a quality car brake fluid replacement tool pump is often seen as a worthwhile investment for efficient and reliable brake system maintenance.
