🚨 Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal? Here’s What Might Be Wrong
🚨 Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal? Here’s What Might Be Wrong
By Andrews Car Centre – Brake Specialists in Lincoln
When you press your brake pedal, it should feel firm and responsive. But if it feels soft, spongy, or sinks to the floor — that’s a clear warning sign something’s wrong.
At Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln, we regularly diagnose and repair brake issues like this for local drivers. A soft pedal isn’t just inconvenient — it’s potentially dangerous. Here's what might be causing it and what you should do next.
🧱 What a Soft Brake Pedal Feels Like
A brake pedal may be described as “soft” or “spongy” when:
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It goes down too easily with little resistance
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You have to press it further than usual to stop
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It gradually sinks when you hold your foot on it
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Braking feels delayed or weak
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to get your brakes inspected immediately.
🔧 What Causes a Spongy Brake Pedal?
Here are the most common reasons:
1. Air in the Brake Lines
Air can get trapped in the brake fluid lines, reducing hydraulic pressure. This is one of the most common causes of spongy brakes — and usually fixed by bleeding the brakes.
2. Brake Fluid Leak
Leaking fluid reduces pressure in the system. Look for signs of fluid under your car, especially around the wheels or brake lines.
Brake fluid is clear to yellowish and has a slightly oily feel — but unlike engine oil, it evaporates quickly and is highly corrosive.
3. Worn Brake Pads or Calipers
Excessively worn components can affect pedal feel. The caliper pistons may have to extend too far, reducing braking responsiveness.
4. Contaminated Brake Fluid
Old or contaminated fluid (with moisture or debris) loses its ability to transmit pressure. Most manufacturers recommend a fluid change every 2–3 years.
5. Master Cylinder Problems
If the master cylinder (which controls hydraulic pressure) is worn or faulty, it can cause the pedal to sink or feel inconsistent.
⚠️ Is It Safe to Drive?
No. A spongy brake pedal means your stopping distance is longer — and in an emergency, it could fail altogether.
If your pedal feels unusually soft, don’t wait. Brake issues often get worse quickly and could lead to complete brake failure.
🛠️ How We Fix It at Andrews Car Centre
When you bring your car in, we’ll carry out a full brake inspection, including:
✅ Checking brake fluid level and condition
✅ Inspecting for leaks in hoses, lines, calipers
✅ Bleeding the brakes to remove trapped air
✅ Testing brake pads, discs, and hydraulics
✅ Honest, clear advice on the best fix
We use OE-quality parts and offer same-day repairs on most makes and models.
📍 Book Your Brake Check in Lincoln Today
If your brake pedal feels soft or spongy, don’t take chances. Get it checked today at Andrews Car Centre — Lincoln’s trusted local garage.
✅ Fast diagnostics
✅ Same-day appointments available
✅ Competitive prices
✅ Friendly, expert mechanics
👉 Call now, book online, or visit us on Dixon Street, Lincoln for your brake check.
🔍 Related Searches We Help With:
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Brake fluid leak fix near me
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Brake bleeding garage Lincoln
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