Q: What are the steps involved in the inspection, removal, and installation of brake pipes and hoses on Ford Focus?
A: To inspect the vehicle, jack up the front and rear, supporting it on axle stands on a level surface. Check for leakage at pipe unions and examine flexible hoses for cracking, chafing, and fraying. Carefully inspect brake pipes for dents, corrosion, or damage; scrape off corrosion, and replace pipes if pitting is significant, especially in exposed areas. Replace any defective brake pipes or hoses. When removing a section of pipe or hose, reduce brake fluid loss by unscrewing the filler cap and sealing the reservoir with cellophane, or emptying it. To remove a pipe, hold the adjoining hose union nut with a wrench to prevent turning, unscrew the union nut at the pipe's end, and release it, repeating the process at the other end before pulling out the clips. If fitting nuts are tight due to weather exposure, use a flare-nut wrench to avoid rounding the flats; if unavailable, self-locking pliers may be used as a last resort, though they may damage the nuts. To minimize fluid loss when disconnecting a flexible brake line, clamp the hose near the pipe to be detached. For removing a flexible hose, clean the ends and surrounding area, unscrew the union nuts, remove the spring clip, and withdraw the hose from the mounting. Brake pipes with flared ends and union nuts can be obtained from dealers or accessory shops, bent to shape using the old pipe as a guide, ensuring not to kink or crimp the new pipe. Installation of pipes and hoses is the reverse of removal; ensure all brake pipes are securely supported, hoses are not kinked, and clear of suspension components. Finally, bleed the hydraulic system upon completion.