The Ford Taurus comes from the factory already equipped with rubber brake lines. Over time, rubber brake lines can become weathered and damaged. Brake fluid can leak from a damaged line and that will can cause the brakes to fail. It is important to replace cracked and weathered brake lines immediately. The job is pretty straightforward, so you should be able to do it. You can purchase replacement brake lines at a local auto parts store.
Loosen the lug nuts on each wheel using a lug wrench.
Raise the rear of the vehicle using a floor jack. Place jack stands beneath the vehicle for support.
Remove the lug nuts from the wheel studs using a lug wrench. Remove all four wheels so you can reach the brake lines and calipers.
Raise the hood of the vehicle and locate the master cylinder. The master cylinder is located in front of the steering wheel on the metal firewall that separates the engine and the body of the vehicle. It is a metal cylinder with a plastic container on top that holds the brake fluid. Trace the brake lines from the master cylinder to each wheel.
Examine each brake line and check for wear, holes and leaks. The brake line is divided into sections and only one piece may have to be replaced. Look at the bends in the brake line. The bends reduce strain on the brake line and should be reinstalled the same way.
Disconnect the bolts from the section of brake line that needs to be replaced. There are two bolts for every connector and the end closest to the caliper should be removed first.
Plug the hole in the brake line using a non-absorbent plug. This will prevent the loss of brake fluid.
Measure the damaged section of brake line. If you do not already have the replacement line, take the damaged section to an auto parts store to ensure that you purchase one of correct diameter and length. If you already have the brake line, compare the two lines and cut the new line to the correct length, if needed.
Install the new brake line. Start with the end of the line that is closest to the master cylinder. Using your hands, twist the bolts onto the brake line. Once the bolts are on, tighten them using the line wrenches.
Remove the air from the brake system by attaching a vinyl tube to the caliper's bleeder valve. Open the valve and have someone to hold down the brake pedal until the brake fluid coming from the tube flows freely. Close the bleeder valve and remove the tubing. The fluid should drain into a pan and be disposed of properly.
Place the wheels onto the vehicle and loosely place the lug nuts onto the wheel studs.
Raise the vehicle using the floor jack and remove the jack stands from beneath the vehicle. Lower the vehicle to the ground.
Add brake fluid to the master cylinder, if needed.
Test the brakes to ensure proper brake line installation before attempting to drive on a public road.
