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Spongy Brakes: Why Should You Be Concerned About Them?

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Your brake system not only keeps your car safe when you drive, it can save your life and the lives of your passengers. But if your brake pedal begins to feel spongy beneath your foot, it's time to check your brake lines for air. Air in your brake lines can be dangerous. Here's how air affects your brakes and what you can do to get rid of it.

How Can Brake Pedals Become Spongy?

Brake fluid keeps your brake pedal from sticking when you drive. The fluid travels through your brake system to reach the pedal. But if the line develops a leak, fluid can seep out the line.

Fluid can also seep from your brake lines if the seals in your vehicle's master cylinder loosen up or wear down. The master cylinder creates the pressure needed to operate your brake pedal. If air enters the brake line, it can cause the pedal to move closer to the floorboard over time. The brake pedal begins to feel spongy or soft when you press it.

A spongy brake pedal can go out at any time, which places you at risk for an accident. Your vehicle might not stop on time, or at all, when you need it. To protect you and other people on the road, have your brake pedal and system inspected.

How Do You Get Rid of the Air in Your Brakes?

You want to take your car or truck to a brake system specialist for an inspection and repairs. A mechanic or technician can inspect the seals in the master cylinder for wear and tear, as well as the brake line for tears and holes. If a specialist finds any of the problems above, they can repair them.

Most technicians bleed brake lines to remove air from them. The bleeding process allows technicians to remove air and old fluid from the brake reservoir. Once the bleeding completes, a mechanic replaces it with fresh fluid.

After a technician services your vehicle, keep your brake pedal free of air by monitoring your fluid level. Low brake fluid can cause unnecessary wear and tear on your brake pedal and line. If the fluid becomes low, refill it immediately. If you can't do so, take your car to a mechanic and request services.

Keeping your vehicle safe on the road begins with your brake system. If you experience any issues with brake system and pedal, see an auto technician right away. You can also learn more about brake repair by visiting http://www.autoservicefairfax.com .


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