Brake pedals should feel just the right amount of firmness and softness. It is a good in-between that we are usually familiar with. That is why the slightest softness or sponginess with our brake pedal may be very obvious.
A spongy or mushy brake pedal is not something that you should ignore. You could deal with major ramifications if you leave the issue ignored. It might not seem like a big deal at first. But soon, you will notice a decrease in your brake performance. It may take longer for you to come to a full stop. To avoid putting your life and others’ lives at risk, please bring your vehicle to Central Park Garage for a brake inspection.
Here are some of the most common explanations for a spongy brake pedal:
Air in Your Fluid Lines
If you know a thing or two about cars and vehicle fluids, you may know that your brake fluid’s biggest enemy is air. That is why it is not recommended that you open the brake fluid tank. When air or moisture escapes into the brake fluid, it can dilute the fluid and interfere with your brake performance. To eliminate the air bubbles, a mechanic will have to bleed your brake bleeding or flush out the system completely.
Low or Leaking Brake Fluid
Ah, you thought we were done with hearing about brake fluid, weren’t you? Brake fluid cannot only get contaminated, but it can leak. A common culprit behind fluid leaks is damage to the fluid lines from wear and tear. When you lose a significant amount of hydraulic pressure, it can cause your brake pedal to be soft.
Worn Out Master Cylinder
Last but not least, a soft brake pedal can be caused by a faulty master cylinder. This component is key in carrying the brake fluid and transferring it to both your front and rear brakes. You may notice a very loose brake pedal as a result, since your brakes aren’t getting the fluid they need.
If you notice your brake pedal being overly soft or spongy, please stop by our auto repair shop so we can diagnose your brake problem. Driving with mushy brakes can be dangerous if you let the problem linger and worsen. We invite you to give us a call or schedule your appointment online today!