1997 Grand Prix Brake Pedal to Floor

GMC
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RIVERAS
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  • 1 POST
I have a 97 Grand Prix w / 99,000 miles. Ileft car at airport for one week. in cold weather of NY. When I get back and drive it,
1) I notice have to brake all the way to bottom. not sure if I'll make it home
2) \Then the brakes begin to work
3) Then I notice that sometimes brake must be dpressed to bottom and other times they seem to work fine

Why this inconsistency? What is wrong w/ car?

Thank you
Mar 31, 2006 at 5:19 AM
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LOSONE
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,616 POSTS
Check your fluid level, Look under the car and see if you have any brake fluid on the inside of the tires. If not change the master cylinder. When they get old they have sometimes have a cold weather problem and the fluid bypasses internally.
Mar 31, 2006 at 5:47 AM
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Suggested Repair

Check the brake fluid level and look under the car for brake fluid on the inside of the tires. If there is no external leak, replace the master cylinder, which can bypass fluid internally in cold weather when it ages.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1997 Grand Prix with 99,000 miles left it parked for a week in cold New York weather. Afterward the brake pedal sometimes had to be pushed to the floor and sometimes worked normally. The expert advised checking the fluid level and inspecting for fluid on the inside of the tires, and replacing the master cylinder if no external leak is found because older units can bypass fluid internally in cold weather.

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