| Subject: | brakes not working |
| Question: | I have bled my brakes
over and over. I do not get any resistance from the pedal until I start
pumping the brakes,then after a few seconds brakes go soft again. I just
tried to replace my rotors and I put everything back together and there
was no presure in the brakes. I dont have any idea what the problem is,
I have bled my brakes until the new clean brake fluid is coming out. I have
bled my brakes many times before and have never encountered this problem.
Any help will be greatly appreciated. 02 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0 ES Manual 56k miles |
| Answer: | When replacing rotors, the
calipers typically do not have to be disconnected from the brake line, making
bleeding unnecessary. If you have tried bleeding the brakes per a service
manuals instructions, and it does not work, you need to inspect the brake
master cylinder. If a spring in the master cylinder has failed, your brake
pedal will most likely go all the way to the floor. Also, there is a brake
booster on the car. That booster has a metal diaphragm in it that aids in your power braking system. If the brake booster has failed, your brakes will always seem spongey. Though you have a lot more miles on your car that may put you over your
basic warranty, this problem may still be covered if there indeed is a
problem with your braking system. Take your car (probably by tow truck
if the brakes don't work) to the dealership and have them inspect the
master cylinder and brake booster if you are unable to. Your problem may
be found there. |