Why does my brake pedal go to the floor after changing pads?
Ava Hudson
Updated on May 05, 2026
If your car has rear drum brakes and the brake pedal goes to the floor, the rear brake shoes could be out of alignment. Sediment. Sometimes when new brake pads are installed, sediment can inadvertently be pushed back into the hydraulic system. This sediment can damage the master cylinder.
Why is my brake pedal soft after changing pads?
Air in the brake fluid is the most common cause of low, spongy brake pedal feel. Moisture in the fluid will not substantially change the pedal feel until the fluid temperature exceeds the boiling point of any water in the fluid, then the pedal feel gets very soft.Why is my brake pedal pushing all the way to the floor?
One of the most common reasons for your brakes touching the floor would be an issue with your brake fluid. Your fluid being low or air reaching the brake line will prevent the fluid from flowing properly, resulting in a spongy pedal. A bad brake booster is another common cause for a malfunctioning pedal.How do I firm up my brake pedal?
The most common reason for a soft brake pedal is simply air still in the system. The easiest way to diagnose this problem is to pump the brake pedal gently a few times. In doing so, the pedal should become firmer with each gentle press of the pedal.How long does it take for new brake pads to bed in?
"Bedding-in new pads and rotors should be done carefully and slowly... Most brake pad compounds will take up to 300-400 miles to fully develop an even transfer film on the rotors." Failure to follow these procedures may result in brake judder, excessive noise, or other difficulties in bedding-in the new brake pads.Why is my brake pedal soft after changing pads?
How do you know if you have air in your brake lines?
How Do I Know if I Have Air in My Brake Lines?
- Brake pedal feels spongy when you press down.
- Brakes feel soft and not as effective as they usually are.
- Brake pedal depressed too much or goes to the floor.
What would be the cause of a dropping brake pedal with no fluid loss from the system?
The most likely cause of a sinking pedal with no external leakage is a faulty brake master cylinder that's leaking internally. Were the brakes hot, we might consider boiling fluid due to moisture contamination or friction material gassing.Why are my brakes not holding pressure?
This can be due to a number of problems: a leak in a brake line, a loss of pressure within the master cylinder itself due to a failed seal, or air being introduced into the braking system. Your first reaction to encountering spongy brakes should be to rapidly pump the brake pedal with your foot.Do I need to pump my brakes to get pressure?
Common reasons for this to happen:Air in the Lines: The number one most common cause for pumping your brakes to get them to work is air in the lines. This may be because your brakes were recently serviced but not bled correctly.