If you’ve ever experienced a spongy or soft brake pedal, you know how unsettling it can be. Instead of the firm, responsive feel you expect when pressing the brakes, the pedal sinks to the floor with little resistance. This is a clear sign that something is wrong with your braking system and needs immediate attention.
Symptoms of spongy brakes
Spongy brakes can exhibit several concerning symptoms:
- Soft brake pedal: The pedal feels mushy and lacks the usual firmness. You may need to press it further than normal before the brakes engage.
- Increased pedal travel: You notice the brake pedal going almost to the floor before the brakes respond.
- Poor braking performance: Spongy brakes can lead to decreased stopping power. Your vehicle may take longer to come to a complete stop.
- Inconsistent braking: The pressure required to engage the brakes changes erratically due to air in the system affecting hydraulic pressure distribution.
- Brake warning light: Some vehicles have a brake warning light that may illuminate if there’s an issue with the brake system, including spongy brakes.
Common causes of spongy brakes
Several issues can lead to a soft brake pedal, but the most common culprits are:
- Air in the brake lines: Even a small amount of air can create a pocket of compression, reducing braking effectiveness. Bleeding the brakes is often necessary to remove trapped air.
- Brake fluid leaks: Brake lines can degrade over time, leading to corrosion and tiny holes that allow brake fluid to escape. This fluid loss results in reduced hydraulic pressure and a soft pedal.
- Faulty master cylinder: A worn-out master cylinder with damaged piston seals or worn components can cause reduced hydraulic pressure and a spongy feel.
- Damaged brake callipers: Brake callipers can become corroded from the heat generated during braking, affecting fluid pressure and causing soft brakes.
- Wheel cylinder issues: Rusted, leaking, or worn wheel cylinders can lead to longer braking distances or even brake lock-ups.
What is involved in the repair?
Diagnosing and repairing spongy brakes typically involves:
- Visual inspection: A mechanic will check for signs of brake fluid leaks, damage to brake lines and hoses, and the condition of brake components like pads, rotors, callipers, and wheel cylinders.
- Bleeding the brakes: This process removes air from the brake lines using a brake bleeder kit, following the manufacturer’s recommended procedure.
- Replacing damaged components: Any worn-out or damaged parts, such as brake lines, callipers, or the master cylinder, will need to be replaced.
- Brake fluid flush: If the brake fluid appears contaminated or has absorbed moisture, a complete fluid flush and replacement is recommended.
Rough cost of brake repairs in New Zealand
The cost of brake repairs in New Zealand can vary depending on the specific issue and the make and model of your vehicle. Here are some rough estimates:
- Brake pad replacement: $60 to $200, with higher-end pads for European models being more expensive.
- Brake fluid flush: $80 to $200.
- Brake calliper replacement: $60 to $300 per calliper, plus $80 to $200 in labour costs.
- Master cylinder replacement: $250 to $500, including parts and labour.
- Brake line replacement: $300 to $800 in total.
Why My Auto Shop is the best place to get your car fixed
At My Auto Shop, we understand how critical a properly functioning brake system is to your safety on the road. That’s why our team of experienced mobile mechanics is dedicated to providing top-notch brake repair and maintenance services at your home or workplace.
We prioritize customer service and convenience, offering upfront, transparent pricing and a strong track record of satisfied customers, as evidenced by our excellent Google rating. Our mechanics have the expertise to diagnose and repair any brake issue, from a simple brake pad replacement to more complex problems like a faulty master cylinder or ABS hydraulic assembly failure.
Don’t let spongy brakes compromise your safety. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, contact My Auto Shop today to schedule a brake system inspection and repair. We’ll get you back on the road with the peace of mind that comes from knowing your brakes are in top condition.