I have a 2008 A6 convertible with 13+k miles and the original brakes. When I come to a complete stop, the brake pedal continues to depress. I did notice some squeaking lately when I brake. There are no leaks under the car and the brake fluid level is full. Are these typical signs that I need new brakes or does this mean a more serious mechanical problem? Thanks for any info.

 

It could be some mechanical problem, but the first thing I'd do is flush fresh fluid into the system.

Brake fluid is formulated to be hygroscopic - it's designed to absorb water. I know there's no guidance in the owner's manual or GM servicing info, but I'm of the opinion that new fluid should be flushed into a modern ABS brake system every couple of years.

So....that's the first thing I'd try - new fluid.

I would think that your brake pads and rotors should have a lot of miles remaining on them if you only have 13K miles on the car, but an inspection of them would be a good idea.

Bob

 

I appreciate it. Thanks Bob

 

Sounds like hydraulic fluid under pressure is going someplace other than the brake cylinders. It could be compressing an entrapped air bubble, or inflating an embolized brake hose, but I'd guess it's leaking inside the master cylinder.

 

one other thing and its a very long shot... but with the squeaking you just never know... If the brakes were never done and they got worn through the pad to the piston and wore though the piston.... you would get similar symptoms as well but I read in another thread with pedal sticking it was the old fluid issue

 

if your pads are fine, then it definitely sounds like a fluid issue or an abs issue!

follow the advice above and try changing out the fluid first. its not hard to do, and you can get the fluid and tools to do it for less than the cost of having it done.

 

Thanks guys

 

My recollection is that a sinking pedal after a normal stop, indicates a defective master cylinder.

 

Still under warranty?

 

Yes, it is still under warranty.

 

I'm taking the car into the dealer tomorrow. I'll post the repair that was needed as soon as I know.

 

I'm sure they'll probably flush some new fluid into the system, and I'll be very surprised if they don't tell you that you need new pads and rotors!!!

If they do, find out how thick your remaining pad compound is and the thickness of your rotors and let us know. There are specs in the Service Manual that tell the Tech when the pads and rotors are too thin, but dealers love to sell you new brake components.

Looking forward to hearing what the solution to your soft pedal is.

Bob

 

harpo,
I would check all the maintenance suggestions first (replacing fluid, etc). However, this can be the result of various other more serious mechanical issues. If the problem persists I'd recommend having it taken in and looked at. Let us know how everything works out.

Chevrolet Customer Service,
Justin

 

The dealer called yesterday and said the problem was the master cylinder. The car maybe ready today. I'll try to get more details when I pick up the car.

 

good to see the issue is getting resolved!

 

OP: Glad you got it fixed, thanks for the update.

 

Picked up the car today and it seems to be riding just fine. Thanks for everyone's help and suggestions.