What is the reason for the brake pedal pulsating?
2 Answers
The reason for the brake pedal pulsating is the activation of the ABS system. The ABS system is the anti-lock braking system in a car. When driving on roads with poor traction, the ABS system is easily activated. It prevents the wheels from locking up, thereby improving driving stability and safety. The car's brake pedal is located below the steering wheel. Pressing the brake pedal causes the brake lever linkage to be pressurized and transmitted to the brake pads on the brake drum, which then clamp the brake rotor, slowing down or stopping the car. The manual brake in a car is located next to the gear shift and is connected to the brake lever. There are also common bicycle brakes, which rely on rod-shaped brakes fixed on the frame or disc-type caliper brakes to slow down.
I've experienced the issue of the brake pedal pulsating during daily driving, which is mostly caused by warped brake rotors. Especially after long-distance driving followed by sudden braking, the high temperatures can cause the edges of the rotors to warp, making the pedal feel like it's dancing when you step on the brakes. This is quite common in older cars or vehicles frequently driven in mountainous areas. If ignored for a long time, the brake pads will wear out more severely and may even affect overall braking performance. Another possibility could be uneven wear on the brake drums, if it's a drum brake system. I recommend car owners regularly check whether the brake rotor surfaces are even—replacing them with new parts usually solves the problem. Developing a habit of avoiding sudden braking can also reduce the likelihood of thermal deformation. From a safety perspective, this little signal should never be ignored. As soon as you feel the pulsation, head to a professional shop for inspection to avoid driving risks.
