What Makes Your Audi Brake Pedal Soft?
by europewpadmin August 12, 2022Audi’s are equipped with superior brakes to provide the driver with excellent stopping power and fade resistance. The importance of proper functioning brakes cannot be understated- they are literally a matter of life and death. In an emergency situation, your Audi’s brakes can help you avoid a collision or minimize the damage caused by one. Additionally, properly functioning brakes play a crucial role in maintaining the control and stability of your vehicle, especially when driving at high speeds. By investing in an Audi, you can rest assured that your car is equipped with some of the best brakes on the market.
With the importance of brakes and your stopping power being so obvious, it is no surprise that people tend to panic when their brakes malfunction, or when anything feels off about them. One such time is when the brake pedal feels soft. Read on to learn more about how to handle when this happens in your Audi.
What causes a soft brake pedal?
When you step on the brake pedal in your car, you expect it to respond immediately, bringing the vehicle to a stop. However, sometimes the pedal can feel “soft,” like it’s not providing enough resistance.
- Low Brake Fluid: When the brake pedal is engaged, fluid is forced through the brake lines and into the caliper. This fluid pressure causes the caliper to piston out, pressing the brake pad against the rotor and causing friction. This friction slows down the wheel, and eventually brings it to a stop. If there is not enough fluid in the system, the caliper will not be able to piston out as far, and the brake pads will not make full contact with the rotor. As a result, it will take longer to stop the vehicle, and the brake pedal will feel soft or spongy. In extreme cases, a complete loss of braking power can occur.
- Air in Brake Lines: Air in the brake lines is one of the most common causes of a soft brake pedal. When the brakes are applied, the Air in the lines prevents the flow of fluid to the brakes, resulting in a softer pedal. Although this may not seem like a big deal, it can actually be quite dangerous. If the air is not bled out of the system, it can cause the brakes to fail entirely. As a result, it is important to have your brakes checked regularly to ensure that they are working properly.
- Worn Brake Pads: Anytime you press the brake pedal, the brake pads are engaged and cause friction. This process is essential for stopping your car, but it also wears down the brake pads over time. When the brake pads become too thin, they can no longer create enough friction to stop the car effectively. As a result, you may notice that the brake pedal feels soft or spongy when you press it. In addition, you may hear squealing or grinding noises when you use the brakes. If you experience either of these symptoms, it’s important to have your brakes checked as soon as possible.
- Malfunctioning Master Cylinder: When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic fluid is sent from the master cylinder to the brakes at each wheel. This fluid provides the force needed to stop your car. If there is a problem with the master cylinder, it can cause the brake pedal to feel soft or spongy. This can be dangerous, as it takes longer to stop the car. There are several reasons why the master cylinder might malfunction. A leak in the system can cause pressure to drop, making it harder for the fluid to reach the brakes. The piston inside the cylinder may also become damaged, preventing it from working properly. If you notice a problem with your brakes, it is important to have it checked by a mechanic as soon as possible.
Trust the Audi Brake Specialists in Plano
If you have been experiencing a spongy 
brake pedal, it is important to have it fixed as soon as possible for the safety of you and your passengers. If you live in or around Allen, Flower Mound, Frisco, Highland Park, McKinney, Park Cities, Richardson, Southlake, University Park, or Plano, TX, call or stop by European Auto Tech today to learn how we can help get your brakes back in top condition for a fraction of the dealership price.