Brake Pedal Play, How Much?

[aaronsbiza]

How much distance must be applied to the brake pedal before the brakes engage the rotor? I am asking because my brakes suck. I have about an inch and a half play and then even when the brakes do engage they are a bit spongey. The front brake pads still have a lot of meat left to them, however I have not looked at the back. There is also a squeaking noise that comes from one of my rear wheels. It mostly appears when accelerating 0-40 or when making a turn, the noise does stop when I apply the brake.

Thanks

 

[93redATX]

Pedal play depends. Your system would probably greatly benefit from a complete flush and new fluid. What you describe can be a sign that your brakes need to be bled. The squeak could be a warped rotor, or a caliper hanging slightly, allowing the pad to have slight contact with the rotor. Pull the wheels off the back and take a look, then go from there. thumb

 

[rangerj]

Just an FYI. The brake pads are always in contact with the rotors. There is a small amount of "static pressure" on the caliper pistons from the master cylinder at all times.

You spongy breaks indicate that either air is in the system and needs to be bled out, and/or your fruid needs to be flushed and refreshed. The amount of pedal travel you describe is about normal.

The noise you hear from the rear could also be bearing noise.