Jeremiah Terry, VP, Phoenix Systems

Ask the Expert: How do you fix a spongy brake or clutch pedal?

Feb. 11, 2016
Sometimes, no matter how hard we try, a brake or clutch pedal just won't firm up.

Q: How do you fix a spongy brake or clutch pedal?

A: Sometimes, no matter how hard we try, a brake or clutch pedal just won't firm up. We usually blame the part. We may replace the master then on to the slave, then the caliper and “Oh, not the ABS.” More often than not, there is trapped air inside the system that does not want to come out with traditional pump-and-hold-the-pedal bleeding. I have even heard of shops raising the front or rear of a vehicle trying to get trapped air out of the system.

There is an easier way and, yes, we do have a tool for it. Years ago, our founder, Jon Petty, was having a difficult time firming up the clutch on a GMC pickup when a stroke of brilliance came. He thought, “Why am I trying to push air down when it naturally rises in liquid.” Later that day, he created the first reverse brake and clutch bleeder. Within minutes, he had a firm clutch and an idea for a patented brake bleeder.

Information provided by: Phoenix Systems LLC

About the Author

Jeremiah Terry | VP Sales & Marketing

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