What are the reasons for a brake pump failure?
3 Answers
The reasons for a brake pump failure are: 1. Dirty brake fluid causing wear on the wheel cylinder; 2. Aging and wear of the wheel cylinder rubber cup; 3. Poor sealing. The brake wheel cylinder is a chassis braking component of the braking system, whose function is to push the brake pads, allowing them to rub against the brake drum, thereby reducing the vehicle speed and bringing it to a stop. The brake master cylinder, also known as the main brake oil cylinder, functions to push brake fluid and gas to each brake wheel cylinder to actuate the pistons. The brake master cylinder is a single-acting piston-type hydraulic cylinder that converts the mechanical energy input by the pedal mechanism into hydraulic energy. Brake master cylinders are divided into single-chamber and dual-chamber types, used in single-circuit and dual-circuit hydraulic braking systems, respectively.
I only experienced a brake pump failure once, and that time it almost caused an accident. Halfway through driving, I felt the brakes were spongy, and no matter how hard I stepped on them, the car wouldn't stop. I was so scared that I quickly pulled over. The cause might have been aging seals. The car had been running for seven or eight years without changing the brake fluid, and the moisture inside caused the parts to rust and corrode. Frequent hard braking is also a problem, as it can overheat and deform the pump, leading to damage. Dust or debris entering the oil line can also cause blockages, resulting in insufficient pressure. Everyone should pay attention to regular maintenance, such as changing the brake fluid every two to three years and checking the pump's exterior for any signs of oil leakage. Otherwise, like what happened to me, not only will the repair cost several hundred dollars, but the safety risk is too high, especially when driving in rain or on mountain roads. Prevention is always better than regret. Now, I've developed the habit of getting a comprehensive brake system check at the auto shop every six months.
From my perspective, there are several common reasons for brake pump failure. Firstly, the sealing rings and internal rubber components deteriorate and crack over time, especially in high-temperature and high-humidity environments, leading to deformation and oil leakage. Secondly, severe contamination of the brake fluid causes impurities to accumulate, resulting in piston jamming or cylinder corrosion. Thirdly, overloading operations, such as continuous hard braking on mountain roads, can overheat the pump and render it unusable. External factors, such as water entering the oil lines or improper maintenance like failing to replace the fluid regularly, could also be culprits. For maintenance, it is recommended to use high-quality brake fluid and avoid mixing with cheaper alternatives. In daily driving, avoid slamming the brakes; gentle operation can extend component lifespan. If signs like weak braking or unusual noises appear, address them immediately—don’t wait until the pump fails completely, as sudden malfunctions on the road can be extremely dangerous. Preventive maintenance is usually straightforward, involving simple checks of fluid levels and pump sealing.
