1. Gather your tools: You'll need a brake fluid reservoir, brake fluid of the appropriate type for your van, a bleeder wrench or combination wrench, a clear hose, a container to catch the old brake fluid, and safety goggles.
2. Prepare the vehicle: Park your vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine. Engage the parking brake.
3. Locate the bleeder screws: There will be two brake line bleeder screws on each of your van's wheels. They're usually located near the wheel cylinder or caliper.
4. Check the brake fluid level: Open the hood of your van and locate the brake fluid reservoir. Make sure the fluid level is above the "MIN" mark. If the fluid is low, add some.
5. Start bleeding the brakes:
- Begin with the wheel that's furthest from the master cylinder, which is usually the right rear wheel.
- Attach one end of the clear hose to the bleeder screw and the other end to the container to catch the old brake fluid.
- Loosen the bleeder screw about 1/4 to 1/2 turn.
- Press and release the brake pedal several times, and then hold it down. While holding the pedal down, observe the fluid coming out of the bleeder screw.
- If the fluid is mixed with air bubbles, continue bleeding until the bubbles stop.
- Tighten the bleeder screw and move to the next wheel.
- Repeat the bleeding process for each wheel, working your way around the van, ending with the wheel closest to the master cylinder.
6. Check the brake fluid level again and ensure it is still above the "MIN" mark. If needed, add some.
7. Test the brakes. Pump the brake pedal a few times to build pressure and make sure the pedal feels firm. Test the brakes by driving the vehicle at low speeds and applying the brakes gently. If everything feels normal, the bleeding is complete.
Note: Some ABS-equipped vehicles may require a scan tool or special procedure for bleeding the brakes properly. If you're unsure how to bleed the brakes on your Windstar van with ABS, consult your vehicle owner's manual or take it to a professional mechanic.
