I am still getting no resistance on the brake when driving

2003 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA
114,000 MILES • 2.0L • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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MIKE KRAMER
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Hello. I wore my right rear driver side break pad down so far that the caliper snapped. I replaced both rear brake pads, both calipers on each side, refilled the brake fluid because it leaked all out during the break, but I am still getting no resistance on the brake when driving. I pump it several times and it feels like it is working and then straight to the floor it goes with no resistance and I can just barely stop.
Nov 24, 2018 at 7:00 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.

Did you bleed the brake system after the repairs? Here is the procedure for doing it

Brake system, bleeding without pressure bleeder
- Build-up brake pressure in brake system by pumping brake pedal.
- Connect hose from bleeder bottle to brake bleeder valve at each wheel in turn (Bleeding sequence).
- Open bleeder valve.
- Hold brake pedal down, close bleed screw.

Note: The brake fluid level in the reservoir must not fall below the MIN mark during bleeding.

- Release brake pedal.
- Repeat operation until brake fluid flows without air bubbles.

Brake fluid, changing
Refer to Brake Fluid; Service and Repair.

Here is a link that shows how in general to bleed the system:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-bleed-or-flush-a-car-brake-system

Here is a link that describes reasons a brake pedal goes to the floor.

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

Now, if you have done this and there is no air in the system, I suspect the master cylinder has failed.

Let me know if you bled the brakes as described above.

Take care,
Joe
Apr 23, 2021 at 12:35 PM
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