Why does the brake pedal not spring back after being pressed?
2 Answers
If the car's brake pedal does not spring back, it indicates issues with the brake caliper and brake wheel cylinder, requiring inspection at an after-sales service center. Below are methods for maintaining brake pads: Avoid sudden braking: Emergency braking causes significant damage to brake pads. When driving normally, it's important to brake gradually or use intermittent braking (pumping the brakes), as this reduces wear on the brake pads. Reduce braking frequency: Develop a habit of minimizing braking during normal driving. Use engine braking to slow down the vehicle before applying the brakes for further deceleration or stopping. Downshifting can also help in reducing speed. Regular wheel alignment: If the vehicle tends to pull to one side, promptly perform a four-wheel alignment to prevent tire damage and uneven wear on the brake pads on one side of the vehicle.
I've been driving for half my life, and when the brake pedal doesn't spring back after being pressed, it's most often an issue with the brake booster. The booster operates using engine vacuum; if there's a leak or the pipes are aged, pressing the pedal won't provide any rebound force. Sometimes, the piston inside the master cylinder gets stuck, preventing the release of hydraulic pressure, or the spring breaks—which is quite common—since it's supposed to pull the pedal back. Air entering the brake lines can make the system feel spongy, and pressing the pedal once might cause it to stay stuck. Low fluid levels or oil leaks are even more dangerous, as they can lead to sudden brake failure. If you encounter this situation, don't wait for luck to save you—first, slow down and pull over, then check if the fluid reservoir's level is low or if there are any stains. If it is, don't force yourself to keep driving; call a tow truck immediately to take the car to a repair shop. Ignoring it could lead to anything from a minor rear-end collision to a serious accident, and the maintenance costs would far exceed those of repairing the car. Safety is no small matter.
