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2018 Camry XSE - Spongy Brake Pedal After Fluid Flush

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Mark S. · rep 0 · May 22, 2:16 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Toyota Camry XSE

Hey everyone,

I recently had a full brake fluid flush done on my 2018 Toyota Camry XSE, and ever since, the brake pedal feels a bit spongy. It doesn't feel as firm as it used to, and I have to press it down further to get the same braking power. There are no warning lights on the dash.

I'm wondering if this is normal after a flush, or if something might have gone wrong. Could there still be air in the system, even though the shop said they bled it properly? Any tips on what I should check or if this is a common issue with these Camrys?

Thanks for any advice!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 2:16 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A spongy brake pedal after a fluid flush often indicates air in the brake lines or an issue with the bleeding process. Here's what could be happening and what to do:

  1. Air in the System: Even after a professional flush, a small amount of air can remain trapped in the lines, especially if the bleeding wasn't thorough or if the master cylinder reservoir ran too low during the process. Air is compressible, leading to that spongy feel.
  2. Improper Bleeding Technique: Some vehicles, especially those with ABS and VSC systems, require specific bleeding procedures, sometimes involving a scan tool to cycle the ABS pump. If a standard manual bleed was performed without this, air might be trapped in the ABS module.
  3. Master Cylinder Issues: While less common immediately after a flush, a failing master cylinder could also cause a spongy pedal. If the internal seals are worn, fluid can bypass them, leading to a soft pedal. This is usually more noticeable as the pedal slowly sinks when held down.
  4. Brake Line Integrity: Inspect all brake lines (rubber and hard lines) for any signs of leaks or damage. A small leak could allow air to enter the system.

When to see a shop:

  • If the pedal continues to feel spongy after a few days of driving, or if braking performance feels compromised, it's crucial to have it re-inspected by a qualified mechanic.
  • Request that they perform a thorough re-bleed, potentially using a scan tool to cycle the ABS module if applicable for your 2018 Camry. They can also check for any leaks and assess the master cylinder's health. Ignoring a spongy pedal can be a significant safety risk.
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