CC Rider

This weekend I replaced the front rotors and pads with OEM parts. Now, my brake pedal seems to travel farther than I think it should, and it requires a lot of pressure to perform adequate braking. I've noticed that if I pump the brake pedal, it seems to do a better job of braking.

At no time did I bleed the brakes, open the lines, or leak/lose any of the fluid, so I don't think that should be a problem. Still, why does the pedal travel so far and not give a strong "feel"?

CC Rider

Ialso checked the master cylinder and it is NOT low on fluid.

studlee

just bleed your brakes

Kris Hansen

Try cycling the parking brake lever a few times to help the rear calipers seat, the fronts should only take a few pumps.

If that doesn't work, you may have blown a seal on the caliper pushing it back in. Check for fluid dripping from a caliper.

WClark

It could just be that the intital clearances were wider than normal and once you position the pistons with a few stops you will be all set. It is also possible that the new rotors have a bit more runout (or an uneven surface coating) than the old which pushes the pads away further when you release the brakes and are moving. The OEM rotors come painted when purchased as parts. Did you remove that paint from the pad swept surfaces or you letting the pads burn it off?

CC Rider

I drove it to work today (about 15 miles) and I'm still not happy with the pedal feel. I'm afraid I'll have to do some bleeding of the lines.

RVTS4

The pads have to match the rotor, although they look smooth the brake pads needs to shape to the rotor to make full contact. Go to a parking lot and apply the brakes with moderate, not hard pressure till you feel them get better.