Brake pedal goes to floor?

1993 FORD RANGER
89,960 MILES • 2.3L • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
Avatar
LEATH
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Recently bought truck that sat for a very long time. Owned by an older gentleman, actual miles are verified. Needed a new fuel filter and changed the oil immediately after purchase. 2 weeks later brakes started feeling mushy and front wheels began to smoke. Replaced calipers, pads, rotors and repacked wheel bearings on front. Replaced pads on back drums. An older mechanic savvy neighbor helped my 19-year-old son accomplish this. Neighbor said brakes did not need to be bled after changing everything out. Brake petal still goes to floor. Before taking this to a shop, would flushing and bleeding all four wheels be a good idea as I am sure the brake fluid is old or should I just take it to a mechanic shop and have them flush brakes and possibly replace master cylinder?
May 13, 2023 at 2:43 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

If the brake pedal is going to the floor and there are no leaks, chances are the brake master cylinder has failed.

First, confirm the brake fluid is full and there are no leaks. Next, see if you can pump the brakes several times to get a pedal. If you can, hold pressure to see if it slowly goes down.

If it does, replace the master cylinder.

Take a look at this link:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/brake-pedal-goes-to-the-floor

Not being there when the calipers were replaced makes it hard for me to say exactly what was done If at any point the brake master cylinder was drained, air would have gotten into the system. Also, if the calipers need to be bled. They aren't shipped with fluid.

Let me know if the new calipers were at least bled. That would have been required.

Take care,

Joe
May 14, 2023 at 2:18 PM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.