My brake pedal feels soft or spongy

The pedal sinks further than it used to or feels mushy. That can mean a leak or air in the brake system.

Stop driving it

A soft or sinking pedal means the brakes may not stop the car. Don’t drive it — have it towed or checked where it sits.

A starting point, not a diagnosis. Most parts stores read check-engine codes and test batteries for free.

Likely causes — tick the parts you want

A brake fluid leak
most likely · A mechanic’s job
How to check: Open the hood and look at the brake fluid reservoir. If it is below the MIN line, look for wet spots inside the wheels or drips on the ground near a tire.
- Brake fluid (DOT type on the cap)(The cap on the reservoir says which DOT type — ask the counter to match it for this car.)
Air in the brake lines
possible · Doable with tools and a free afternoon
How to check: If the pedal feels firmer after pumping it a few times, air is a likely cause, especially right after brake work.
- Brake fluid (DOT type on the cap)(The cap on the reservoir says which DOT type — ask the counter to match it for this car.)
- Brake bleeder kit
A worn master cylinder
less likely · A mechanic’s job
How to check: With the engine running, hold steady pressure on the pedal. If it slowly sinks toward the floor with no visible leak, the master cylinder may be failing.

Be careful

Don’t blow brake dust off with compressed air or breathe it in — wet it down with brake cleaner and wipe it away. Never get under a car held up only by a jack — set it on jack stands on flat, solid ground and chock the wheels that stay down.

Your car — the counter needs this

YearMakeModelEngine (optional)

VIN (optional, most exact)Which parts store (optional)

If the counter doesn’t have a part, your shopper asks them to order it under your name and messages you the order number. When it comes in, send someone to collect it.

Not quite it?

My brakes are grinding My brakes squeal My steering wheel shakes when I brake My car pulls to one side when I brake