What causes low brake pedal in Santana?
2 Answers
Low brake pedal in Santana is caused by brake system leakage, air trapped in the brake system, rusted or sticking brake calipers/wheel cylinders, or excessive clearance between brake discs and pads. Definition of brake pads: Automotive brake pads, also called brake linings, are friction materials fixed to rotating brake drums or discs. The friction linings and blocks withstand external pressure to generate friction, thereby decelerating the vehicle. Composition of brake system: The brake system consists of control system, hydraulic system, and booster system. The control system includes pedals and parking brake. The hydraulic system comprises brake fluid, master cylinder, and hydraulic lines. The booster system refers to the vacuum booster. The electronic control system includes ABS pump, sensors, and control unit. The execution system consists of brake calipers, pads, and discs.
Having run a repair shop for twenty years, I've dealt with numerous cases of low brake pedals on Santanas. The most common issue is excessive wear on brake pads, leading to longer brake travel. Another frequent problem is the aging of internal seals in the brake master cylinder, which prevents pressure buildup. Additionally, brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, causing vapor lock at high temperatures and resulting in a soft pedal. During inspections, I first measure brake pad thickness – anything below 4mm requires replacement. Then I check the brake fluid color – if it's darkened, the entire system needs flushing. Finally, I test the master cylinder pressure – if seals are failing, we replace the entire unit. Drivers should avoid harsh braking and use lower gears for downhill speed control – these practices can extend brake pad life by a year or more, improving both safety and cost-efficiency.