Signs And Symptoms That Your Car’s Brake Master Is Failing

Slowing down a car goes beyond just stepping on the brake pedal. Underneath it all, your braking system’s brake master cylinder performs the crucial job of converting the force you exerted on the pedal into hydraulic pressure. After a series of more intricate force and energy conversions, that’s the only time when you can successfully put your car into a slow-down or into a full stop.

With continued use, the master cylinder eventually wears out — like what any machine or device would. If you own a vintage car and you happen to look for 1988 Mercedes 560sl parts especially, it can really be a challenging job. So even before your master cylinder really breaks down, it’s best to know the signs and symptoms that it is already failing. Here are essential bits of wisdom for you.

Your pedal is sinking. A well-functioning pedal brake should only depress at a certain point. If it sinks further than the usual spot, then it signals that there’s something wrong with your brake system. Most of the time, this is rooted from a faulty master cylinder or an internal brake fluid leak.

Your pedal is dragging or sticking. If there are instances when your pedal is exhibiting abnormal behavior — by “abnormal,” meaning it occasionally drags or sticks or feel spongy — it’s a tell-tale sign of a broken brake master. A situation like this is likely attributed to a worn out cylinder interior.

Your brake fluid leaks. For a hydraulic device like a master cylinder to perform well, it has to have an adequate amount of fluid. If your brake fluid is leaking, you will definitely have a hard time slowing down your automobile.

Your brake fluid is contaminated. Even if you’re brake fluid is not leaking, if it is contaminated, your master cylinder will also not be able to perform optimally. Brake fluid contamination is caused by worn out rubber seals. If you feel like you have a mushy pedal, check if the brake fluid has already turned into a brownish or black color — if so, it means that the fluid is indeed contaminated and needs to be replenished.

Your check engine light and/or brake warning light turns on. Cars are equipped with brake warning lights to indicate a number of reasons (i.e. Low brake fluid level, brake pressure problems). If yours illuminates, it’s best to have your brake system inspected. The same holds true if your check engine light comes on. It’s also a good indicator that something within your brake system needs to be fixed.

Proper Diagnosis is Key

Master cylinders that are already faulty need to be replaced immediately. But before looking for a replacement (or any other 1988 Mercedes 560sl parts), you have to get a proper diagnosis first.

An expert in the field is expected to do a full inspection of your brake system. If the damage is still not that severe, you might just need to repair or replace a certain part. Wait for a professional’s further instruction and act accordingly once you’ve got it. You can also ask them about proper maintenance so you’re newly repaired or replaced master cylinder can be fully maximized.

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