2004 jeep grand cherokee brake line replacement

Q: Can I replace my own brake lines?

While you can replace your own brake line, its recommended that you leave the job to an experienced mechanic. Remember, brakes are highly crucial to vehicle safety, so its important not to cut corners.

A leaking brake line can sacrifice brake performance. Replace the bad brake lines to stay safe in the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Table of Contents Show

Step 1 – Locate the brake line
Step 2 – Remove the old brake line
Step 3 – Install new brake line
Step 4 – Bleed the brakes
Related Discussions
How much does it cost to completely replace brake lines?
Can I replace my own brake lines?

This article applies to the Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ (1999-2004).

The brake system is a pressurized system, so any air that alters it will affect the brake performance of your Jeep Grand Cherokee. A leaking brake line not only lets fluid out of the system, but it also lets air into it. Replacing a brake line is a simple process; however, it requires a brake bleed in the end. A bleeding brake line will affect the feel of your brake pedal, making it spongy. If you suspect you have a brake fluid leak, take a flashlight, slide under your car, look at every caliper, and follow the line connected to it. If you see any signs of wetness or cracks, then replace it. Also, keep an eye on the brake fluid reservoir under the hood; if it gets lower, then you have a brake fluid leak. Read on to learn how you can replace a brake line.

Materials Needed

3/8 wrench
Brake line pinch tool
Clear hose
Bottle
Brake line
Brake fluid

Step 1 – Locate the brake line

The first step is to locate the brake line that needs replacement. If you're experiencing spongy, soft brake pedal feel, then check the brake fluid reservoir to see if it's low on fluid, which is an indication of a leak. Then go under the car and look for the leaking brake line. Follow the brake line you will replace, so you have an idea of the work space you will be working in. Measure the brake line to get the same exact length.

Figure 1. Sign of a leaking brake line.

Step 2 – Remove the old brake line

Remove the brake line nut by the caliper, then cap it off or pinch the line with your brake line plastic pinch tool. Be sure to have a rag handy for when brake fluid spills. Follow the line and disconnect any fasteners along the way that is holding the brake line in place. When you reach the other side of the line, remove the nut holding it and remove the line.

Pro Tip

Brake fluid is corrosive to car paint, so be sure to wipe any as soon as it spills.

Step 3 – Install new brake line

Install the new brake line the same way. Tighten the brake line nut on one side, then run the brake line the same route the old on was routed, and re-install the old fasteners. Install it back onto the caliper and tighten the bolt. Be sure to wipe off any fluid that touched any of the components.

Figure 4. Install the new brake line.

Step 4 – Bleed the brakes

No that you've introduced air into your brake system, you will have to bleed the air. Bleed the caliper where you removed the line from. If you are bleeding the whole system on all four calipers, start from the passenger's rear caliper, driver's rear caliper, passenger's front caliper, and end with the driver's caliper.

Locate the bleeder screw on the brake caliper, connect the clear hose to it and connect the other end to a bottle. Ask a friend to pump the brake pedal a few times and then keep it pressed down. Loosen the bleeder screw a quarter inch counterclockwise, and then watch for bubbles in the brake fluid coming out. When you stop seeing bubbles, tighten the bleeder screw first, then ask the friend to let go of the brake pedal. Be sure to top off the brake fluid in the reservoir, and if it gets too low, you will have to repeat the process.

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SJPB9904

This preformed complete brake line kit will replace all the metal brake lines on your vehicle and includes the master cylinder lines, left front line and right front crossover line, intermediate lines, and rear axle lines/trailing arm lines.

Our replacement lines are engineered from factory original lines and CNC manufactured for precision. They include the correct fittings, flares, and protective wrap (where equipped).

Clip sets, hoses, and valves are available for most kits and can be found in the related products below or by choosing the appropriate category in the main navigation above.

Sale price

$155.00

Regular price

$195.00

Reviews

How much does it cost to completely replace brake lines?

Typically speaking, you will pay between $250 and $500 for one brake line. This is broken down between a cost for labor which is between about $40 and $50 and a cost for the parts, which is between about $150 and $275. Typically, brake lines need to be replaced around 100,000 miles.

Can I replace my own brake lines?

While you can replace your own brake line, it's recommended that you leave the job to an experienced mechanic. Remember, brakes are highly crucial to vehicle safety, so it's important not to cut corners.

jeep grand cherokee brake line replacement