Spongy brakes are a warning sign that something isn’t right with your car’s braking system, and addressing this issue quickly is important for safe driving. When you press the brake pedal, it should feel firm and responsive; if it feels soft, sinks to the floor, or requires pumping to maintain pressure, you may have a problem that needs immediate attention.

In this article, we’ll cover what spongy brakes are, the common causes behind them, and steps you can take to diagnose and fix the issue to keep your vehicle safe on the road.

Recognising the Signs of Spongy Brakes

1.     Brake Pedal Sinks

When your brake pedal sinks to the floor without much resistance, it’s usually a sign of reduced brake pressure or a fluid leak. This sinking feeling occurs because the braking system isn’t able to maintain the necessary pressure to keep the pedal firm, often due to fluid escaping from the brake lines or master cylinder. If you notice your pedal sinking, it’s essential to check your brake system immediately to prevent further issues.

2.     Needing to Pump the Brakes

If you find yourself needing to pump the brakes to maintain pressure, it could mean there’s air in the brake system or a small fluid leak. Air disrupts the smooth flow of brake fluid, creating gaps in hydraulic pressure, which leads to an inconsistent braking experience. If pumping temporarily restores brake firmness, it’s a good indication that your braking system has been compromised by air or a fluid problem.

3.     Brake Warning Light

Many modern vehicles have dashboard indicators to alert you when the brake system isn’t functioning correctly. A brake warning light can signify low brake fluid, a potential leak, or even a more significant problem with the braking system. If your warning light is on, it’s best to check all brake components or consult a professional to diagnose and address any underlying issues.

Common Causes of Spongy Brakes

Several issues can lead to a spongy brake pedal, each requiring attention to maintain safe braking performance.

1.     Brake Fluid Leak

Brake fluid leaks are a common cause of soft or spongy pedals. Over time, brake lines, often made from steel tubing, can corrode and develop small holes, leading to fluid loss. This loss of fluid reduces hydraulic pressure, causing the brake pedal to feel soft and less responsive. Inspecting fluid levels and checking brake lines, calipers, and hoses can help identify leaks and prevent further brake degradation.

2.     Air in the Brake System

Air trapped in the brake system is another frequent cause of spongy brakes. Air can enter the system through small leaks or after components are replaced. When air is present in the brake lines, it disrupts fluid flow, resulting in an inconsistent brake pedal. Bleeding the brakes, or removing air from the system, is often necessary to restore pedal firmness and responsiveness.

3.     Worn Brake Hoses

Old or damaged brake hoses can allow air to seep in, creating a soft brake pedal. Unlike brake lines, hoses can swell or degrade over time, making it easier for air to enter the system. Inspecting for visible wear, swelling, or leaks in hoses can help prevent soft brakes and improve overall braking consistency.

4.     Brake Fluid Contamination

Contaminated brake fluid can also cause a spongy brake pedal. Debris, rust, or mixing incompatible fluid types can impact brake fluid’s effectiveness, reducing pressure consistency. Over time, brake fluid can absorb moisture, altering its composition and reducing its compression efficiency. Regularly flushing the brake fluid and using the correct type for your vehicle helps maintain optimal brake performance and keeps the pedal firm.

What To Do if You Notice Spongy Brakes

• Check Brake Fluid Levels: Begin by inspecting the brake fluid reservoir to ensure it’s filled to the proper level. Low fluid levels can indicate a leak somewhere in the system, so it’s crucial to refill as needed and monitor the levels closely. If you’re frequently topping off fluid, there’s likely a leak that needs immediate attention.
• Inspect for Visible Leaks: Check around the brake hoses, lines, and calipers for any signs of fluid leaks. A fluid leak is often visible as a puddle or residue around these components, especially if the fluid level in the reservoir is consistently low. Identifying leaks early can prevent further issues with brake pressure and performance.
• Pump the Brakes to Test Pressure: Try rapidly pumping the brake pedal to see if pressure temporarily returns. If the pedal firms up with pumping but goes soft again afterward, there’s likely air in the system. This is a common cause of spongy brakes and often means the brake lines need to be bled to remove trapped air.
• Look for Warning Lights: Pay attention to any brake warning lights on the dashboard. These indicators are designed to alert you to potential issues in the brake system, including low fluid levels or pressure inconsistencies. If a warning light appears, avoid driving the vehicle until the brakes have been inspected to ensure your safety.

How to Fix Spongy Brakes

Addressing spongy brakes may require some maintenance steps to ensure proper brake performance and safety, including:

1.     Bleed the Brakes: Bleeding the brakes is a process that removes trapped air from the brake lines, restoring pedal firmness. This process involves opening specific valves in the brake system to let out air and allow brake fluid to fill the lines properly. Bleeding the brakes is often the first step when dealing with air-related brake issues.

2.     Replace Worn Brake Hoses: Old or worn brake hoses can allow air to enter the brake system, creating a soft pedal. If you notice swelling or visible damage on the hoses, replacing them is a good option. New brake hoses ensure a sealed system, preventing air from affecting the hydraulic pressure and improving braking performance.

3.     Flush the Brake Fluid: Regularly flushing the brake fluid helps maintain consistent pressure and prevents contamination from affecting brake performance. Over time, brake fluid can absorb moisture and debris, which diminishes its effectiveness. It’s recommended to flush the fluid every two years to keep the braking system in top condition and avoid spongy brakes.

When to Seek Professional Help

In some cases, spongy brakes may indicate a deeper issue requiring professional inspection.

If spongy brakes persist after you’ve tried bleeding, flushing, or replacing hoses, it’s best to consult a mechanic. Persistent soft brakes can point to problems with the master cylinder or the ABS, both of which require specialised expertise to diagnose and repair properly.

If you notice significant fluid leaks or damaged parts, seeking professional assistance is essential. Large leaks or issues with critical components, like the calipers or brake lines, need to be handled by trained technicians who have the necessary tools and knowledge to ensure safe and effective repairs.

Guarantee Safe Braking with Expert Care from Kate Presnell Bodyworks

Spongy brakes are a clear indicator that your vehicle’s braking system needs attention. Addressing issues like low brake fluid, air in the brake lines, or worn hoses as soon as they arise helps ensure your vehicle remains safe to drive. While some maintenance steps can be done at home, persistent or severe brake issues should always be handled by a professional.

At Kate Presnell Bodyworks, our team is dedicated to providing thorough, expert brake inspections and repairs to keep you safe on the road. Whether you need a quick brake fluid flush, part replacement, or a full system inspection, our skilled technicians are here to help. Contact Kate Presnell Bodyworks today to ensure your brakes are in top condition and ready for any journey.