I just had the brake pads replaced front and rear at my dealer, Helfman Ford. At 63K miles for the first time. I took it in because my brake pedal was getting soft and they told me that the back pads were shot. They also turned my rotors.
Now after 1,000 miles my brake pedal is getting soft again. Do I need to have them: a) bleed the brakes again b) replace the brake fluid c) replace the brake rotors (how much $$$) d) do all above ?
Thanks, Lynn
If the pedal was firm as it should be after the brakes seated with a few miles of driving and then became soft or mushy again, it is likely you are getting air in the lines or master cylinder somewhere. If there are no indications of fluid leakage it is quite possible that the master cylinder is drawing air through the rear seal even if it is not visibly leaking fluid. If there is fluid wetness below the master cylinder on the front face of the booster, that is the likely source of air ingestion. It is also possible that some air has at some point gotten trapped in the ABS controller.
Another cause of brake softness is pad kickback which does not involve air in the system. This is where a hub or axle is moving excessively or a rotor is badly warped causing the pads to retract excessively leaving excessive brake released clearance from the rotor surface. This calls for checking and adjusting the spindle bearings or the axles for axial thrust. Excess play or thrust can be caused by a failed bearing. In any case, you need the system thoroughly checked by a qualified brake technician to determine and correct the cause. If you do not trust the dealer, get a recommendation from a trusted and knowledgeable friend or co-worker. The life you save may be mine.
Lugnut
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