Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts water even inside the hydraulic system. This is why all European car manufacturers recommend a brake fluid change interval, usually 1 year or 2 years.

When it comes to the essentials of any car, brakes rate right up there with things like wheels and gasoline. A solid, firm brake pedal is a good place to start checking that your brakes work properly.

I think the accepted way for a one-person bleed is to fill a tube with fluid and place it in a resevoir of more fluid. As the pedal is pumped, it will bubble air out but draw fluid in.