Brake problems

MICHAEL JACOB PUTNAM

MEMBER
2006 CADILLAC ESCALADE
6.0L
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
110,000 MILES

Recently had to make an emergency stop. After this, the brake pedal went to the floor. The car still stopped, but only right when the pedal was at the floor. I checked for leaks and found a steel line leaking. I replaced it. While bleeding the system afterwards, a bleeder screw broke off in a rear caliper, so I had to replace the caliper. I started the bleeding process over again, but never could get any pedal pressure. I know there are no more lines or hoses leaking. What else could cause this?

1 Reply

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,797 POSTS

Good evening.

The ABS module needs to be bled out from the system being open and air in the system.

This procedure requires a scan tool to open the solenoids in the ABS.

Below is the procedure.

Roy

Automated Bleed Procedure (w/o JL4)

Notice: When adding fluid to the brake master cylinder reservoir, use only Delco Supreme 11, GM P/N 12377967 (Canadian P/N 992667), or equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid from a clean, sealed brake fluid container. The use of any type of fluid other than the recommended type of brake fluid, may cause contamination which could result in damage to the internal rubber seals and/or rubber linings of hydraulic brake system components.

Notice: Refer to Brake Fluid Effects on Paint and Electrical Components Notice in Service Precautions.

Important: This procedure may be performed on all vehicles EXCEPT those equipped with option code JL4, Vehicle Stability Enhancement System (VSES).

Important: The base hydraulic brake system must be bled before performing this automated bleeding procedure. If you have not yet performed the base hydraulic brake system bleeding procedure, refer to Hydraulic Brake System Bleeding (Manual) Hydraulic Brake System Bleeding (Pressure).

1. Install a scan tool to the vehicle.
2. Start the engine and allow the engine to idle.
3. Depress the brake pedal firmly and maintain steady pressure on the pedal.
4. Using the scan tool, begin the automated bleed procedure.
5. Follow the instructions on the scan tool to complete the automated bleed procedure. Release the brake pedal between each test sequence.
6. Turn the ignition OFF.
7. Remove the scan tool from the vehicle.
8. Fill the brake master cylinder reservoir to the maximum-fill level with Delco Supreme 11, GM P/N 12377967 (Canadian P/N 992667), or equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid from a clean, sealed brake fluid container.
9. Bleed the hydraulic brake system. Refer to Hydraulic Brake System Bleeding (Manual) Hydraulic Brake System Bleeding (Pressure).
10. With the ignition OFF, apply the brakes 3 - 5 times, or until the brake pedal becomes firm, in order to deplete the brake booster power reserve.
11. Slowly depress and release the brake pedal. Observe the feel of the brake pedal.
12. If the brake pedal feels spongy, repeat the automated bleeding procedure. If the brake pedal still feels spongy after repeating the automated bleeding procedure inspect the brake system for external leaks. Refer to Brake System External Leak Inspection.
13. Turn the ignition key ON, with the engine OFF; check to see if the brake system warning lamp remains illuminated.
14. If the brake system warning lamp remains illuminated, DO NOT allow the vehicle to be driven until it is diagnosed and repaired. Refer to Symptoms - Hydraulic Brakes. See: Hydraulic System, Brakes > Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures > Symptoms - Hydraulic Brakes
15. Drive the vehicle to exceed 13 kph (8 mph) to allow ABS initialization to occur. Observe brake pedal feel.
16. If the brake pedal feels spongy, repeat the automated bleeding procedure until a firm brake pedal is obtained.