Abnormal Conditions

Changes in brake pedal feel or travel are indicators that something could be wrong in the brake system. The diagnostic procedures and techniques use brake pedal feel, warning indicator illumination and low brake fluid level as indicators in diagnosing brake system concerns.
- Brake pedal goes down fast. This could be caused by an external or internal leak.
- Brake pedal eases down slowly. This could be caused by an external or internal leak.
- Brake pedal is low or feels spongy. This condition may be caused by no fluid in the brake master cylinder reservoir, reservoir cap vent holes clogged or air in the hydraulic system.
- Pedal effort excessive. This may be caused by a bind or obstruction in pedal / linkage, clogged fluid control valve or insufficient booster vacuum.
- Rear brake lockup during light pedal force. This may be caused by wrong tire pressure, grease or fluid on rear brake shoes and linings, damaged rear brake shoes and linings, improperly adjusted parking brakes or damaged / contaminated brake pressure control valves.
- Erratic pedal effort. This condition could be caused by power brake booster malfunction, extreme caliper piston knock back or improperly installed brake shoes and linings.
- Brake warning indicator ON. This may be caused by low fluid level, ignition wire routing too close to fluid level indicator assembly or float assembly damage.