Issue With Brakes, Can Anybody Help?

[nuffsaid]

Hi all

I got this extract from the web:

"To check your booster, with engine off..pump brakes several times to get rid of residual vacuum. Then while holding the brake pedal down, start the engine. If booster is working you will feel the pedal drop. If your pedal is almost going all the way to the floor, it is usually adjustment or air in system. If it is hard and doesn’t move, then it is probably a brake booster issue."

Are the above statements correct?

Lately my brakes seem to have deteriorated. There is more pedal travel in the brakes, especially after driving it around for a bit.

When stopped at the lights and hold the car still, I can push the brake pedal further by stepping on it really hard. It feels as if it might hit the bottom but doesnt quite get there.

When I tried the above test with the car off, I pumped the brakes until they became hard, then started the engine. The pedal dropped down a fair bit, but again, didnt hit the bottom.

Also, when I am stopped at the lights, I have tried pumping the pedal several times. It doesnt get harder or softer, and the pedal doesnt come up from its original position.

I am a little worried because every now and then when I brake, and brake hard, it feels like the brakes dont wanna stop the car.

I have machined all 4 discs, replaced all 4 pads with good ones, and have driven the car over 5000kms since. I have also had a mechanic bleed the brakes twice with good fluid. There are no signs of leaks as I have never had to top up my brake fluid in the year that I have had my car, I also cant find any leaks anywhere.

Any ideas?

Thanks, much appreciated!

[nuffsaid]

Oh and hoses seem fine last time I had the mechanics check it.

[tacker]

Still the hoses maybe pulsing when pressure is applied giving a soft feel simple and not overly costly to do.

[Kennedy]

Do you have a brake cylinder stopper?

[blind_elk]

Do the pistons actually move when you press on the pedal? You may have 1 or more siezed pistons that will reduce your braking efficiency.

[GreddyGo]

Do a full brake fluid flush, If it still does the same replace your brake hoses and throw in a mster cylinder stopper!

Cheers

Josh

[dangerous_daveo]

I think a master cyl rebuild might be a good idea... But ask your mechanic. I dont think the brake booster stopper is the logical next move. Make sure everything is working as it should first.