Brake Pedal Soft After Bleeding? [Causes and Fixes]

It is highly important to bleed brakes because it pushes fluid and ensures air-bubbles-free brake lines. Even after doing this essential repair, if you feel that the brake pedal is soft, it is a matter of concern. The reason why, soft brake pedals can cause different issues like extended stopping distance.

Thus, we are going to find out why this happens and what you can do to prevent this issue. If you suspect that you have a soft brake pedal, join this valuable discussion!

Why Are Brake Pedals Soft After Bleeding?

Brake pedals can be soft after bleeding when there is air in the brake lines, low brake fluid level, and so on. Based on our experience, we have condensed all the causes below, so check this list out!

Air in the Brake Lines

The most common reason is that there is still air trapped in the brake system. Even a small amount of air can compress under pressure, causing the brake pedal to feel soft. This can happen if the bleeding process isn’t thorough enough or if the brake system isn’t properly bled after a repair.

Improper Bleeding Technique

If the bleeding process is not performed correctly, it can leave air in the system. Each vehicle may have a specific bleeding procedure that needs to be followed, including the order in which the wheels should be bled. So, it is vital to get professional support for this repair.

Low Brake Fluid Level

If the brake fluid level is low, even after bleeding, it can cause a soft pedal too. This could be due to not topping off the brake fluid reservoir after bleeding.

Brake Fluid Contamination

Old or contaminated brake fluid can absorb moisture. As a result, there will be a decrease in the fluid’s effectiveness and a soft brake pedal.

Faulty Master Cylinder

A worn or damaged master cylinder can fail to build up the necessary pressure in the brake system, resulting in a soft pedal.

Leak in the Brake System

Any leak in the brake lines, calipers, or wheel cylinders can also lead to a loss of hydraulic pressure, causing a soft pedal.

Collapsed or Damaged Brake Hose

A damaged brake hose can bulge or collapse internally when the brakes are applied, leading to a spongy pedal feel.

Worn Brake Components

Worn pads, rotors, or other brake components can also contribute to a soft pedal feel.

How to Fix Brake Pedal Soft After Bleeding?

To fix a soft brake pedal after bleeding, you should follow a systematic approach to diagnose and resolve the issue. We have created an easy-to-follow guide so you will be able to remedy the cause within no time.

Recheck the Bleeding Process

First of all, ensure that you are using the correct bleeding technique for your vehicle. Some vehicles have specific procedures, including the order in which the wheels should be bled.

Sometimes, the first bleeding doesn’t remove all the air bubbles. Thus, you may need to bleed the brakes multiple times. Start at the wheel farthest from the master cylinder (usually the rear passenger side), then move to the next farthest (rear driver’s side), and then the front wheels.

Inspect for Leaks

Next, check all brake lines, hoses, calipers, and wheel cylinders for leaks. Remember that even a small leak can let air into the system and cause a soft pedal. You should pay attention to wet or oily spots along the brake lines or near the brake components.

Check Brake Fluid Level and Quality

Ensure the brake fluid reservoir is filled to the proper level. Low fluid can lead to air entering the system. If the brake fluid is old or contaminated, it would be better to flush the entire system and refill it with new fluid.

Evaluate the Master Cylinder

A failing master cylinder can cause a soft pedal. Thus, check for signs of internal or external leaks. If the master cylinder is defective, it will need to be replaced.

Inspect Brake Pads and Rotors

Worn brake pads or damaged rotors can affect the pedal feel. So, replace them if they are beyond their service limits.

Check for Collapsed Brake Hoses

Inspect the brake hoses for any signs of bulging, cracking, or weakness because a damaged hose can expand under pressure and cause a soft pedal.

Bleed ABS System (if applicable)

Vehicles equipped with ABS may require a different bleeding procedure, sometimes needing a scan tool to cycle the ABS pump and valves. This is particularly important if the ABS system is opened or if air is suspected in the ABS modulator.

Check for Proper Adjustment

Some vehicles have adjustable brake push rods or other components that can affect the pedal feel. Check whether everything is adjusted according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Seek Professional Help

If you’ve gone through all these steps and the problem cannot be solved, or if you’re unsure about any part of the process, we suggest you consult a professional mechanic. Brake systems are critical for safety, and proper functioning is essential.

What Happens if You Use a Soft Brake Pedal?

If you use a soft brake pedal for a longer time, you will have to face the following terrible outcomes. Let us explain each one to you:

Increased Stopping Distance

The most immediate concern is that a soft brake pedal often results in increased stopping distance. In fact, this can be hazardous, especially in emergency braking situations, as the vehicle may not stop as quickly as needed.

Reduced Braking Efficiency

When the brake pedal feels soft, it typically means the braking system isn’t operating at full efficiency. This reduced efficiency can make it more difficult to control the speed and stopping of the vehicle, especially in heavy traffic or on steep inclines.

Inconsistent Braking Performance

A soft pedal may not provide consistent feedback, so it will be difficult to judge how much pressure to apply for desired braking. This inconsistency can lead to unsafe driving conditions, as you may not be able to brake effectively in different situations.

Driver Fatigue

Operating a vehicle with a soft brake pedal can be tiring, as it often requires more effort and concentration to ensure the vehicle stops properly.

Damage to Brake System Components

Continuing to drive with a compromised brake system can lead to further damage. Eventually, you will have to bear costly repairs.

Legal and Insurance Implications

Driving a vehicle with a known safety defect, like a compromised brake system, can have legal and insurance implications, especially if it leads to an accident.

Brake Pedal Soft After Bleeding? [Causes and Fixes]