Pulsing when braking

Awjvail · 09-29-2009

Hey,

For the past little while I've noticed my brake power has decreased dramatically.. to the point where I have to press really hard on the brakes in order to actually stop.

When I press on the brake pedal when slowing down from a good speed, I can feel a pulsing (both in the pedal and in the actual feel of the car)...

I think I've got a warped rotor or perhaps uneven wear or something. Would a warped rotor decrease braking power? Or would I need new pads as well?

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kcari · 09-29-2009

Yes, sounds like you need both, perhaps pads and resurfacing or new rotors. when was the last time u change ur pads and whats ur mileage like...

OCDjG · 09-29-2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by kcari

Yes, sounds like you need both, perhaps pads and resurfacing or new rotors. when was the last time u change ur pads and whats ur mileage like...

+1

You can visually check them both to see the condition. If you can barely see your pad then there is your answer there. As for the rotor look to see if you can see any funny lines. That'll give you an idea of the condition of the rotors. Most likely you'll have to replace both.

gearbox · 09-29-2009

check the brake fluid too. if you are having to press the pedal down further, could be a bad master cylinder.

Awjvail · 09-30-2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by kcari

Yes, sounds like you need both, perhaps pads and resurfacing or new rotors. when was the last time u change ur pads and whats ur mileage like...

I can't remember when they told me the pads were changed.. I only just bought the car in July and haven't done anything to it except change the oil.

It passed government safety inspection in June so I would assume the pads were satisfactory then.

It's an 02 Coupe with 250k kms (155k miles) on it.

It's still drivable, however it requires some extra braking time to get used to.

kcari · 09-30-2009

also do u hear noises like metal squeeking or scratching when u brake or under normal driving? even with worn pads your car can still brake, but like you said u might have to press it down harder and of course it wont be as strong, but have someone look at it if you dont know what you're doing.