Do your brakes feel soft? It’s probably your brake wheel cylinders.

Posted on July 17, 2024 in Auto Repair, Maintenance, Tips From The Pros

Brake wheel cylinders are found in most modern drum brake systems. When the brake pedal is pressed, the cylinder extends to press the brake shoes against the brake drum and slow the vehicle. As a hydraulic component, the wheel cylinder is subjected to harsh conditions and can wear out over time. When brake wheel cylinders wear out, they can produce a few symptoms alerting the driver that they need to be replaced.

“Mushy” feel to the brake pedal

One of the first and most distinct symptoms of a bad brake wheel cylinder is a “mushy” brake pedal. If the wheel cylinders start leaking, their ability to pressurize and extend the piston will be compromised. This makes the brake pedal feel strangely soft or "mushy," as if the pedal slowly sinks to the ground when it's pressed.

Delayed or slow brake response

Another common symptom of a failing brake wheel cylinder is called, "poor brake response." If a wheel cylinder fails, it can decrease the pressure of the braking system. This, in turn, reduces the brake system’s ability to slow the vehicle. A vehicle with poor brake response will be significantly harder to stop making an accident more likely.

Leaking brake fluid

Leaking break fluid is another sign of issues with the brake wheel cylinders. Usually, you’ll be able to locate leaks with a quick visual inspection. You may see a thin film of fluid covering the inside of the backing plate; if the leak is more serious, you might notice drips or pools of brake fluid coming from the brake wheel cylinder. If a leak is large enough to be easily seen or to leave a puddle on the ground, the vehicle’s braking ability may already be compromised.

Repair Brake Wheel Cylinders At V&F

Bake wheel cylinders are critical to the overall safety of your vehicle. If you suspect that your wheel cylinders may be having a problem, have your car inspected by a professional technician. At V&F, our certified mechanics use the latest diagnostic equipment and high-quality CARQUEST auto parts to ensure we get the job done right. Plus, our auto repair services are backed by an industry-leading 3-year / 36,000-mile warranty on parts and labor. Call us today at (413) 314-2280 or schedule an appointment online. This article was published in July 2018 and has been updated.