WAS: 05 Elantra GT Rear Disk Brakes Question

I cannot think of a logical explanation for why replacing the pads would change the pedal height. I'm not disputing your finding; I just cannot think of a reason why it should be so.

Very strange I admit. Especially considering the fact that the pads really weren't all that worn. I still think it is too low, but it is not spongy at all anymore and at least a little higher. Weird.

Exactly. Brake systems are supposed to be self adjusting. There should be NO difference in brake pedal height between new pads and pads that are completely worn out, and that's exactly the way every car I've owned has been, including my Elantra. The fact that your pedal height changes indicates that there is something wrong with your brake system and changing pads more frequently than necessary is NOT the answer.

Considering that the self-adjustment is a function of fluid flowing from the reservoir into the master cylinder and ultimately into the calipers, I suspect that there is a blockage between the reservoir and the master cylinder. Perhaps pushing the rear pistons (and the extra fluid) in dislodged it, but since the pedal still seems low, I suspect that's not the case. I wouldn't trust the brake system until it's been thoroughly checked out and flushed from the calipers up. Your car is NOT fixed, you merely masked one of the symptoms of the problem.

I agree. That is why I was mad at the dealer...I brought it in for low pedal (to the floor) and their only answer (in writing I might add) was changing the rear pads. I checked the shop manual, checked all troubleshooting guides...not one mentioned pads for a low pedal..not even on the list of possibilities. I will be complaining to the dealer. Having said tha, the pedal is still low, but not as low as before replacing the pads...but the brakes feel much better I have to admit. Thanks.

If you don't get anywhere with them, let them know that you'll be contacting Hyundai directly and then do so. Hyundai is very responsive to customer complaints, but their dealers vary considerably in that regard.

That makes sense. By installing new pads, you've pushed more fluid into the system, which would have the effect of pushing the brake pedal upward.

Have you tried pulling outward on the pedal? I'm curious what would happen if you do so.

I just sent a letter off to the service managaer at the dealer. I will give him a couple of days to respond. Next will be a letter to Hyundai directly. This morning my wife was on her way to work and she said that it got bad again...and she usually tells me something isa fine even when it isn't..so I'll assume it's bad. When she gets home I will try pulling up on the brake pedal...never tried that. I'll let you know.

I faxed a letter to the dealer about 3PM. Got a call from the service manager around 5PM. Not bad. She wants to personally see my car, I am bringing it in Thursday. She was very nice and apologetic and asked for another chance at the low brake pedal thing. So far so good. Maybe something will get done after all. I'll let yo all know later in the week.

It's put more fluid in the reservoir, but the amount of fluid in the cylinder portion should be the same. I don't see the link between more fluid in the reservoir and a higher pedal.

I'll agree that we have less fluid in the calipers. But it should still take the same amount of pedal travel to apply the same braking force.

I saw something like this once where the reservoir cap wasn't vented properly. Applying the pedal pushed the pads against the rotors, and releasing sucked them away (about 1/4" if I remember right). Removing the master cylinder cap made the problem go away. Replaced cap. No more problems.

(Of course, I don't recommend driving around with your master cylinder cap off to test this theory. I have the distinct advantage of performing tests on a lift.)

Now that makes sense and it would be easy for him to test.