What's the reason for the van's brakes not holding well?
2 Answers
The reasons for a van's brakes not holding well are as follows: 1. Insufficient or deteriorated brake fluid: Lack of brake fluid results in insufficient pressure to push the brake pads. Additionally, brake fluid has strong water absorption properties, and if not replaced for a long time, it can easily develop air bubbles, affecting braking performance. 2. Excessive wear of brake pads: When the brake pads wear out, the gap between the brake pads and the brake disc increases, leading to excessive free play and insufficient braking force. 3. Air in the brake fluid lines: If air enters the lines, the brake fluid under high pressure will appear weak, thus affecting braking performance.
A few days ago, I also experienced a situation where the brakes failed while driving a van for delivery. I almost had an accident when making a turn on the road. Later, when I took it to the repair shop for inspection, several common causes were found: first, the brake pads were worn too thin and couldn't generate enough friction; second, the brake fluid reservoir was leaking, causing unstable hydraulic pressure, which made the pedal feel spongy; and third, the vacuum booster pump might be broken, as there was no response when pressing down. Vans often carry heavy loads over long distances, causing the braking system to wear out faster, especially in older models, which are more prone to issues. Additionally, if the tire pressure is too high or the road is slippery, braking performance can also deteriorate. In short, if you notice the brakes failing, stop immediately to check or go to a professional shop for repairs—don't wait until an accident happens to regret it. Make sure to check the brake pad thickness and fluid level every six months to ensure safety.
