Impact of Cold Weather on Your Brakes
A soft or spongy brake pedal after cold weather is usually caused by air in the lines, moisture in the brake fluid, or a failing hydraulic seal. Extreme sub-zero temperatures can cause rubber seals in the master cylinder to shrink slightly, allowing tiny amounts of air or moisture to enter the precision braking system of your BMW, Mercedes, or other high-end European import.
Winter Brake Performance
European vehicles rely on specific brake fluid viscosities to ensure the rapid response of safety systems like Traction Control and ABS. If the fluid has absorbed moisture over the winter, it can "boil" under the heat of braking or thicken in the cold, both of which result in a pedal that feels less firm. This is a critical safety issue that can lead to longer stopping distances.
Don't ignore a change in pedal feel. "A spongy pedal in a European car often points to a hydraulic seal that doesn't like the sub-zero temps and needs immediate professional attention," says Mike Dyer, Westgate High Tech’s, Master Technician.
Protecting Your European Import from Cold-Weather Brake Issues
Restore your vehicle's braking precision with a brake inspection. If you need service, our European brake packages start at $649 and include the proper system calibration your high-performance vehicle requires. Call (402) 397-8144 to schedule or book online conveniently with our scheduling tool.