Spongy brakes

RUSSELL COLLINS

MEMBER
2007 FORD FOCUS
4 CYL
AUTOMATIC
116,000 MILES

While out today my brakes went soft. I was able to pump them, and they worked. I was in an appointment for about an hour and a half. The brakes worked fine the whole ride home. I can't get it looked at till Monday. Is it okay to drive to the mechanic? And why did it seem to rectify itself?

BTW, the car was sitting in very cold weather for 2 days right after a rain/snow event. Could there have been ice in the brake line?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,709 POSTS

Russell, that is a tough question to answer. When you say they were soft, did the brake pedal go to the floor? Also, have you confirmed the brake fluid level is full? Are there any indications of leaks under the vehicle near the wheels?

In most cases, when the pedal goes to the floor and then pumps up, it is the result of a failing brake master cylinder. The plungers within the master cylinder get dry and wear allowing brake fluid to bypass them. The result is what you described. I'm wondering if sitting in extreme conditions amplified the condition, so it was noticeable.

I want you to try something for me. Start the vehicle. Pump the brakes a few times and then hold a good bit of pressure on them. If the master cylinder is going bad, oftentimes, the brake pedal will slowly go to the floor. It may take a few minutes.

If we find the master cylinder is bad, you can replace it yourself. I'll help you through the process.

Try that and let me know what you find.

Take care,

Joe