Your brake master cylinder serves as the heart of the braking system, pushing pressurized fluid all through the lines to slow your car down on demand. The fluid starts in the reservoir and then goes into the lines as the brake pedal moves the primary and secondary pistons. If anything goes wrong along the way, you’ll likely notice the following signs that it’s time to have your Steeleville IL mechanic replace the master cylinder.

Sinking Brake Pedal

Each time you press down on the brake pedal, the master cylinder sends fluid through the lines to clamp down the calipers and slow down your car. Then, as you lift your foot off the pedal, it should return to its starting position right away. If not, then the master cylinder is not pulling fluid back into the reservoir as it should.

If you try to push down the pedal again to activate the brakes, nothing will likely happen. You’ll then need to use your emergency brake to stop your vehicle, potentially resulting in an accident. So, it’s best to park your car and call for a tow to your trusted Steeleville IL auto repair shop if you notice the pedal failing to return.

Fluid Contamination

Although brake fluid used to come in a clear tone, it’s now made in amber, purple, and green tones. No matter the color of your brake fluid, it should always look clean and be completely free of dirt and debris. If not, then the seal around the lid on your master cylinder is likely worn or damaged.

While it might not seem like a big deal, those tiny particles can block the passageways in your braking system, causing a marked decrease in stopping power. Since it’s impossible to replace just the seal around the lid, you’ll need to have the whole master cylinder replaced. You’ll also need to get a brake fluid flush to clear out all the contaminated fluid in the system.

Brake Fluid Leaks

As your master cylinder gets worn out, brake fluid can start to leak out around the primary piston. It’s also possible for leaks to develop around the brake lines and the reservoir attachment point.

When brake fluid starts leaking, you may notice:

• A puddle of fluid on the ground below the master cylinder
• Soft or spongy brake pedal feel
• Brake warning light lit up on the dash
• Brake pedal quickly pushes to the floor without returning
  
  

Beyond all that, if you take the lid off your master cylinder, you’ll see that the fluid is low. At that point, it’s wise to get a tow to the shop and have your master cylinder replaced by your mechanic.

Need Brake Repair in Steeleville, IL? Call to Schedule Your Visit

Whenever you need brake repair in Steeleville, IL, please call 618-965-9609 to schedule your visit to Mevert Automotive & Tire Center. We’re always happy to perform a full inspection and diagnosis to let you know what your car needs. We can then replace your master cylinder or perform other auto repairs to keep your car in great shape. So, feel free to call right when you notice the first signs of a problem, and we’ll get your car on the schedule.