5 SYMPTOMS OF A BAD BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER -

This article will show you some of the most common symptoms of a bad brake master cylinder.

The brake master cylinder is a hydraulic cylinder that turns the power you produce from pressing the pedal into braking power.

It distributes brake fluid to every wheel when you press the brake pedal.

So, when it’s faulty (torn inner seals are the usual cause of problems), it’s a big problem as the brakes work partially or do not work at all.

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SYMPTOMS OF A BAD BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER

1. THE BRAKE FLUID LEVEL IS ALWAYS LOW

The most obvious symptom of a bad brake master cylinder is that the level of brake fluid is always low.

In this case, you may have to add fluid very frequently.

If you notice this symptom, it’s best to take action right away; don’t wait for the other symptoms to appear.

For more information on how to add brake fluid, click here.

2. THE BRAKE FLUID IS DARKER OR CONTAMINATED

While checking the level, check the color of the brake fluid also.

With this problem, you may notice that it’s darker than usual, and there may even be barely visible debris in it.

This is due to moisture and particles getting into the system because of the faulty brake master cylinder.

3. THE BRAKE PEDAL SINKS

One more alarming symptom is that the brake pedal starts sinking more than usual.

What’s even worse, the pedal can work well for some time, and then suddenly sink. After this, you lose braking power at a moment’s notice.

When the cylinder is on its last legs, it may even sink to the floor, and you’ll have to pump the pedal to achieve some braking power.

For more information on how to drive if the brakes fail, click here.

4. LONGER BRAKING DISTANCE

Once the pedal starts sinking, you’ll also notice that you need a longer distance to stop the car.

When you notice any changes in this distance, immediately check out the problem since the situation can get worse in a moment’s notice.

5. THE CAR PULLS TO ONE SIDE WHEN BRAKING

The last among the symptoms of a bad brake master cylinder that you’ll also easily notice is that the car pulls to one side when you brake.

This is especially noticeable during hard braking.

A damaged brake cylinder, due to damaged internal seals, will not distribute the brake fluid evenly, thus causing the car to pull to one side.

If you want to learn more about car brake problems, click here.

CONCLUSION

The moment you notice any of these symptoms of a bad brake master cylinder, react immediately.

If the brake fluid level is always low and you have to add it all the time, you definitely have a problem.

If it’s not the main cylinder, then it’s something else for sure. Whatever it is, it affects the safety of driving and should be solved as soon as possible.

Best not wait for the pedal to sink, for the car to pull to one side, or else.

By then, it’s already a safety hazard for you and other participants in traffic.