What Causes Soft Brakes in Cars?

[Sherri]

There are multiple reasons for soft brakes in cars, as detailed below: 1. Brake fluid has not been replaced for a long time. The recommended replacement interval for brake fluid is every 2 years or 50,000 kilometers. Brake fluid has the property of absorbing moisture from the air. If not replaced in time, excessive water content in the brake fluid can generate steam, leading to air in the brake lines, which affects braking performance and causes soft brakes. 2. Air in the brake lines. During brake system maintenance, if air is not completely bled from the brake lines, it can result in soft brakes. To fix this, the brake system lines need to be bled. 3. Brake master cylinder piston leakage. Over time, the rubber seals in the brake master cylinder piston may deteriorate, causing leakage and oil return, which leads to soft brakes. 4. Brake caliper leakage. This prevents the brake system from maintaining sufficient oil pressure, resulting in soft brakes. 5. Issues with brake pad material. It is advisable to use branded brake pads and avoid cheap, unbranded ones. 6. Recently replaced brake pads. The gap between newly replaced brake pads and rotors may not be fully aligned yet, causing temporary soft brakes.