Rep Power: 0

Hi,
I have found many resources online showing instructions for replacing the front brake pads and many of them does not use the bleeder valve when pushing back the caliper piston but instead let the brake fluid be pushed back into the system and back into the master cylinder. Even the Chilton repair guide does this. However, others _strongly_ recommend not doing that because you might potentially push dirty fluid into sensitive components such as ABS system. Instead, they recommend to open the bleeder valve and have the excess fluid come out there.

What is the recommended way then?

Thanks!

 
Rep Power: 244

I always just push the cylinder back in and let the fluid go back the reservoir. If your brake system has been properly maintained then the fluid should be ok. If not then I might bleed it first.

 
Rep Power: 222

I used to just push the piston in, now I crack the bleeder and then push the piston back. As long as your fluid isn't really nasty it won't hurt anything. Also if the bleeders are super rusty you may cause more problems trying to crack them open.