Brake Pedal Feels Soft? Don’t Ignore This Warning Sign!
A soft or “spongy” brake pedal is a serious warning sign that something is amiss with your car’s braking system, and ignoring it could put you and others at risk.
What’s Going On Under the Hood?
There are a few usual suspects when it comes to a spongy brake pedal. Air in the brake lines is a common culprit. Brake fluid, like most fluids, can absorb moisture over time. This moisture can turn to vapour when the brakes heat up, creating air bubbles and that dreaded soft feeling.
Another possibility is a leak in the brake lines themselves. Brake fluid is corrosive, and those lines can wear down with age and use, especially if you’re driving an older car or haven’t had your brake fluid flushed regularly.
And let’s not forget the master cylinder, the heart of your braking system. If the seals in the master cylinder are worn, fluid can leak internally, reducing the pressure needed to stop your car effectively.
The Dangers of Delaying
Imagine trying to avoid a kangaroo jumping out in front of you on the open road – those precious seconds lost could mean the difference between a near miss and a serious accident.
Not only is it dangerous, but ignoring a soft brake pedal can also lead to more expensive repairs down the track. A small leak can quickly become a major problem, and if you damage other components by driving with faulty brakes, you’ll be looking at a much bigger bill.
What to Do if Your Pedal Feels Spongy
The first thing you should do is pull over somewhere safe as soon as possible. Avoid driving the car any further than absolutely necessary.
Next, give a trusted mechanic a call and describe the problem. They’ll likely ask you some questions about how the pedal feels and if you’ve noticed any other symptoms, like unusual noises or warning lights.
Ready to give your brakes the attention they deserve? At Keys Road Auto, we’ll make sure your car is stopping on a dime, no matter what the road throws your way.
Contact our team of expert mechanics at Keys Road Auto today to schedule a thorough brake inspection and get back to driving with confidence.