Using the "Chris Fix" method of brake bleeding on my Prius

This is good advice - the carpenters clamp works great. Couple quick questions here on the general brake fluid change not mentioned in any of the YT videos:

1. I only have two jacks, is it ok to put the car into inactive mode for just the rear....then turn it off to move the jacks / front wheel removal? Or does this process have to be done in a single go while in active mode?
2. I read a thread about not turning the wheel or opening the driver's side door during a Techstream fluid flush (it will put the car out of inactive mode and throw codes, causing a heft dealership bill). Does this also apply to the non-Techstream method like the NotsaboutBotltz video, or can I leave the driver's door open while replacing fluid? It wasn't mentioned in the video.

 

Get two more?

These are the things that can kick you out of Invalid Mode, according to Toyota Repair Manual. I believe nutzaboutbolts also lists them in their video:




The full pdf is attached in the brake fluid replacement link in my signature. (on a phone turn it landscape to see signatures.)

 

Nobody has done this one axle at a time?

 

Under what conditions does the safety valve shut off the line of a brake fluid leak as a safeguard and what is the reset mechanism for this if any?

 

I got a pressure bleeder kit and a Toyota/Lexus brake reservoir cap adapter.

It worked well on our Camry, no brake pedal pumping/pressing required. The best thing about this type of system is it automatically fills the brake reservoir as the brakes are bled, no worries about running air into the master cylinder and brake lines if you run the brake fluid low, like doing it the conventional way.



I haven't used it yet on the Prius.

SM-G781V ?

 

Hie thee to Harbour Freight, acquire 2 more, comparable jack stands?

 

I hear ya , I’m just curious if we can do one wheel at a time vs having the entire car level like an ATF change.

For example - do the rear, then exit invalid and mode turn car on to recharge 12V, then do the front.

 

The Repair Manual spec'd order (see relevant link in my signature), is to start with front/right, then go around counterclockwise. I suppose you could do the two fronts, lower the front, raise the rear, and carry on.

BTW,, I'd highly recommend to have a smart charger hooked up for the duration. Then:

is not required.

FWIW, I'd think it's even possible to do the process with the wheels on, car on the ground.

But..., why make it hard on yourself? Get the tools need to expedite things?

 

The garage I'm using isn't mine and I don't have much storage space, so I'm trying to eliminate excess tools that will take more space in an apartment (I've already got a lot of tools). I can get another two jack stands if absolutely needed but now it sounds like a charger is also required for this job. Just trying to see what can be done with minimal additions.