Brakes Gone Bad??

clay roby · Post by **clay roby** » 18 Jun 2006, 16:41

I have a 1994 850 that has, what seems like, very poor braking cability despite having replaced all pads and rotors and with no warning lights coming on. I have to apply a lot of pressure on the brake pedal to make it stop within a reasonable distance. I have taken the car to two different national brake shops, both say there is no problem. I have other Volvo's of the same model that have excellent braking capability, so I know something isn't right. And, althought there is a fine line betweeen bravery and studity, I do most of car work myself with mostly good results.

My guess at this point is that there is a problem with the brake booster or less likely the master cylinder but don't know how to confirm this ? Any thoughts and recommendations would be appreciated before I resort to taking the car to the (ugh) dealer? Secondly, anyone know a good and honest independent Volvo repair shop in Indianapolis, just in case?

stoutlogic · Post by **stoutlogic** » 18 Jun 2006, 16:53

If the brakes still function but you are using more and more force I would say your assumption is correct, failing brake booster or vacuum leak to brake booster master cylinder. If the vac line has a leak you will basically end up with manual brakes

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 18 Jun 2006, 18:10

When's the last time the brake fluid was replaced? A lot of shops will replace the brake pads by just pushing them out and still not changing the fluid. After awhile the fluid does absorb moisture and becomes less effecient. This will affect braking ability and fade.

Post by **mom** » 18 Jun 2006, 20:34

MadeInJapan wrote:When's the last time the brake fluid was replaced? A lot of shops will replace the brake pads by just pushing them out and still not changing the fluid. After awhile the fluid does absorb moisture and becomes less effecient. This will affect braking ability and fade.

And if so, did they use DOT 3 instead of DOT 4 ?