Brakes sometimes don't work when I first start the car

Tiny
DEARHILDIE
  • MEMBER
  • 2004 FORD TAURUS
  • 6 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 90,000 MILES
I have a 2004 Ford Taurus. The brakes sometimes don't work when I first start the car. It's an awful feeling to be pressing the brake with my foot as hard as I can and the car still rolls when I put it in gear. I first took the car to a Sears repair shop. They couldn't find a problem with the brakes and the issue didn't show itself when they first started the car up, which is when the problem occurs for me. It's now at a Ford dealership. It's been there for over a week. Each time we've let the car sit a little longer. Each time the technician doesn't
experience the problem so he can find it. They're frustrated with me because they want me to pay the diagnostic fee and get the car out of their lot. I'm frustrated because this is the car my 18 year old son drives. What if the brakes give out while he's, say, on the expressway and needs to make a quick stop? Everyone in this family has experienced this issue. Have you ever heard of this happening before?
Tuesday, March 29th, 2011 AT 2:27 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
SQM
  • MECHANIC
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

This issue sounds like related to a vacuum issue for the brake booster.
It could be due to a faulty brake booster. It can also be due to not getting the vacuum assist that is required to provide braking power.
There is a check valve that is located on the brake booster, it is where the vacuum hose attached to. It is possible for the valve to be faulty get stuck at certain times, leading to the issue.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

I have attached diagrams for your reference.

Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you.
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Sunday, October 17th, 2021 AT 3:32 PM

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