When it comes to driving cars, most Canadians tend to focus on acceleration, speed, and how fast a car is able to move. However, driving a car is not merely about speed. Stopping a car from a higher speed is equally important. Being a driver, you know how it is supposed to feel when you hit the brakes.
If you are having a problem with the brakes, stopping your car will require much more effort and time. If your vehicle is suffering from the problem of spongy (soft) brakes, it is time to address the issue right away without any delay. Spongy brakes are not just irritating while driving, they are dangerous, too.
Here are the Top 3 Causes for Spongy Brakes
Old or Low Brake Fluid
- The brake fluid converts the force you apply to the brake pedal to pressure that causes the brakes to bring the car to a halt. This makes regular brake fluid changes
- Brake fluid plays a crucial role in making the braking system function properly.
- It lasts for a long time. However, it is not something that will last forever.
- Brake fluid lasts for the service duration from 25,000 to 30,000 miles. However, it can last for more than 100,000 miles as well provided there is no leakage.
- Moisture damages the braking system, thus resulting in spongier brakes.
- Hence, if there is a low brake fluid level or leakage, it is time for you to get a brake fluid change.
Presence of Air in the Braking System
- Air in the braking system is one of the most common causes of spongy brakes.
- You need to find out how the air got into the braking system.
- It may be due to a leakage somewhere or probably due to low brake fluid.
- If you have had some repair work done on your braking system that might be a cause as well.
- The presence of air in the braking system results in pressure imbalance which can cause the vehicle to take longer to stop.
- Getting it repaired and an immediate brake fluid change can be the right steps to take.
Damaged Brake Line
- The brake line can become brittle due to the rust from road salt and moisture present on the road.
- Corrosion can result in holes in the brake line causing the brake fluid to leak and create a need for frequent brake fluid change.
- Leakage of brake fluid results in reduced levels, which causes the hydrostatic pressure to become less.
- The brake lines become weak, thus causing the brakes to become spongy.
- Brake lines do not have any protection against corrosion.
- The longer the rust and corrosion take place, the higher the chances are of brake fluid being lost from the system.
- Brake line damage also causes air to enter the braking system.
If you are looking to get a brake fluid change done, Urban Lube is the best place to do it. In addition to brake fluid changes, Urban Lube offers other services as well, such as oil changes, windshield wiper change, seasonal tire change services, battery boosters, and more.
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