SureTrack Real Fix: Spongy Buick Brake

Real Fixes from the SureTrackĀ® expert information resource are documented issues from actual shop repair orders and community discussions. Read on to see how SureTrack can help you correct issues that are not easily diagnosed using OEM information alone. SureTrack is currently available free with the purchase of a current Snap-onĀ® diagnostic software version.

This fix illustrates the power of the SureTrack community to quickly help a fellow tech solve a diagnosis problem. SureTrack community member Turb0net had a 2014 Buick Regal in the shop with a spongy brake pedal. They posed the question to the community, and with the help of fellow community members Sixshooter and others, they were able to resolve the issue quickly.

The following Community Fix summarizes the interaction between members of the community that led to the solution.

Vehicle
2014 Buick Regal Premium 2.0L Eng. CD LTG

Title
Spongy brake pedal, very low at first pump

Complaint
The customer states after not applying service brakes while driving for a period of time, the first brake pedal pump goes very low before braking.

Cause
Needed rear brake service, then abs and manual bleed procedures were performed on the vehicle with no change. Replaced the master cylinder and bled hydraulic system several times, including ABS bleeding. The results of these tests verified there are no visible hydraulic leaks in the system. Community member, Sixshooter offered helpful advice to check the front brake caliper sliding pins, which were frozen, thus causing the issue.

Correction
Replaced front brake caliper sliding pins.


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About the Author

Abagail Lucero

Abagail Lucero is the Product Marketing Manager for ProDemand. She joined the company in 2011 as a member of the SocialCRM shop marketing team and has served in many roles at Mitchell1, lastly as Security and Compliance Supervisor. Abagail holds a Bachelor of Science degree from California University of Pennsylvania.