Brake pedal to floor after slamming brakes

TUFGUY5088

MEMBER
1996 FORD TAURUS
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
138,000 MILES

I had to slam on the brakes to avoid an accident. I now have a brake pedal that goes to the floor. When the car is off, I can pump the pedal and I get pressure until 3-4 pumps and then it is hard. When the car is on, I can push it right to the floor and I barely get any braking power. Could it be the master cylinder? Booster? Brake hoses? Brake lines? What should I check for?

Tuesday, July 19th, 2011 AT 8:40 PM

2 Replies

PROTECH1980

MEMBER
901 POSTS

First check the fluid level, you possibly could have blown a brake hose or line, if it is low, add fluid and pump brakes with car on. Then get out and look underneath to see if any brake fluid is leaking on the ground, that would lead you to the failed line or hose.

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Monday, April 5th, 2021 AT 12:03 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
50,067 POSTS

It does sounds like you have a blown master cylinder here is a guide to help you replace it.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-brake-master-cylinder

this guide can help as well.

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

Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.

Cheers, Ken

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Monday, April 5th, 2021 AT 12:03 PM