What Is Pedal Pumping Brake Failure?
Pumping the brake pedal in response to brake failure can return proper brake function or help diagnose the cause of the failure. On the other hand, repeated brake pumping on a car with worn-out brake fluid can cause the brakes to "boil" and become inoperable, according to AA1 Car.
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As a Remedy
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Sometimes pumping the pedal can temporarily restore failing brakes. A brake pedal that travels all the way to the floor before engaging the brakes, for instance, may require several pumps of the pedal to engage the brakes properly.
As a Cause
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While pumping the pedal can add power to failing brakes, it also can trigger a brake failure. Repeated hard use of the brakes, as in sudden stops or braking on steep grades, can overheat old, watery brake fluid until it loses the ability to apply pressure to the brake system.
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Diagnostic Uses
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In some cases, drivers plagued by a brake problem can troubleshoot the cause by determining whether pedal pumping improves the situation. For example, a lack of power assist that responds to pedal pumping may indicate a leaky vacuum booster.
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