Frequently Asked Brake Questions
Thanks to www.reatta.net for the following questions and answers.
1 - My
Yellow, Antilock Brake Light seems to have a mind of its own. It
is intermittently on?
Answer: An
intermittent yellow light is usually caused by a failing Main
Relay, unless the light only comes on when the Brakes are
applied. If you have, in the past, had an intermittent Yellow
light that is now, "On", all the time, the Main Relay
has probably completely failed. You can test the Main Relay by
switching it and the Pump Relay or simply replace it. (See Relays
and Diagrams)
2 - My
Yellow, Antilock Light comes on when I apply the Brakes?
Answer: You
probably have a failed Accumulator, especially if the Red Light
follows shortly. Take the Brake Tests in Troubleshooting.
3 - My
Yellow, Antilock Brake Light never goes off?
Answer: The
Main Relay may have failed but before replacing, read the codes
at the ALDL. Instructions are in Troubleshooting Link and the
Manual. Retrieval of the codes is simple, fast and requires only
a paper clip or a short wire.
4 - My Red
Light comes on when I apply the Brakes?
Answer:
Indicates Low Brake Pressure. DANGEROUS. Take the Brakes Tests
and park the car until the problem is resolved.
5 - My car
pulls to one side when I apply the Brakes?
Answer: Cause
could be a pinched line, a malfunctioning caliper, a seal failure
in the Master Cylinder or a malfunction of a Servo Valve in the
Valve Block. All of these possible causes are serious! Take the
Brake Tests, retrieve ALDL codes, then have the car diagnosed by
a qualified mechanic.
6 - My Brake
Pedal goes to the floor when I apply the brakes?
Answer: This
is a" no drive" situation! Possible causes, excessive
air in the system, internal leaks, external leaks. It may be
possible to floor the pedal, immediately after starting the
engine, before lights are out, while sitting in the driveway but
once underway, this, "should not happen."
7 - My Brakes
feel spongy and soft?
Answer:
Reatta Brakes have a soft, spongy feel however, air in the lines,
worn pads, internal leaks, a failed Accumulator will increase
this softness.
8 - My Brakes
have failed. The mechanic suggests replacing the _____ and__
and____( you fill in the blanks). Estimate is over $500?
Answer: A
hard one! There are several Rebuilders of the System. Replacement
of the Hydraulic Unit includes Pump, Pump Motor, Reservoir,
Hydraulic Unit w/ Valve Block, Pressure Sensor and Accumulator.
See ," Parts
" Link.
9 - How often
should I have the Brake System flushed and fluid replaced?
Answer: Do it now! Probably every 2 years thereafter. How to is included in this article.
Standard disclaimer!
Use at your own risk. The authors and those associated web site at Brads Reatta homepage take no responsibility for any damage resulting from any of the comments, recommendations or other direction contained herein, either implied or expressly indicated.
Brake FAQ's