Is Your Mercedes Brake Pedal Hard To Push? Know the Reason Here

Has your Mercedes' brake pedal become overly resistant lately? It is important that you get it looked at right away. Because leaving such an issue undiagnosed can prove to be disastrous in the long run. The purpose of writing this blog post is to provide you with all the information you need to know about hard brake pedals; so that you can take appropriate and timely actions.

What Would Cause a Vehicle’s Brake Pedal to Be Hard?

Your Mercedes' braking system is a fairly complex unit; comprises many different parts ranging from brake pedal to pads. If the brake pedal suddenly becomes resistant, it doesn't necessarily mean that something is wrong with the brake pedal itself. The reason could be a faulty brake booster or a seized caliper or something else that you might not have imagined.

Below we have put together a list of reasons why your Mercedes’ brake pedal may feel stiff. Plus, as you read through you will get to know about a few solutions to this problem.

Reason #1- Seized brake caliper

More often than not… faulty calipers cause the brake pedals to suddenly become overly resistant. After all, they push the brake pads against the brake rotor to slow the vehicle down. If one of the calipers seizes up due to a faulty screw or piston, depressing the brake pedal will feel like pushing against a brick. Plus, if your Mercedes’ brake calipers are faulty, you’ll find that your vehicle is pulling to one side.

Solution:

If you notice puddles of oil near your wheels, or you start to hear squealing sounds when you apply the brakes, it's important to get your brake calipers looked at immediately. If they are defective, replace them.

Reason #2- Faulty brake booster

The brake booster, as is evident from the name as well, is a key component of a vehicle's power braking system that essentially increases the force that the driver has applied to the brake pedal. If the booster malfunctions, the efficiency of the braking system will drop significantly. It is also important to note that a faulty brake booster can cause your vehicle's brake pedal to feel stiff.

Solution:

For your Mercedes' power brakes to be functional, its booster must be in good working condition. If you suspect a booster problem in your vehicle, get it checked by a professional.

Reason #3- Ruptured vacuum hose

The brake booster relies on the engine's vacuum to amplify braking force. If its diaphragm bursts or the hose connecting the booster to the engine breaks, its effect will be seen on the braking ability. Plus, if there is something wrong with the brake booster, you will find that your brake pedals have become more resistant. Defects in the brake booster can also have an impact on the engine operation.

Solution:

The brake booster is a simple component. Nevertheless, it plays an important role in the overall functionality of your vehicle's braking system. For a smooth and hassle-free braking experience, you must ensure the upkeep of the brake booster.

Reason #4- Clogged brake lines

So, you have checked everything from the brake pads to calipers… However, your efforts to find the source of the problem are still fruitless. Why don’t you check the brake lines??? You may find something... If the brake line becomes clogged, it may result in the brake pedal being hard. After all, it is the brake line that connects the brake pedal to the brake pads.

Solution:

If the brake lines become clogged, the flow of brake fluid may be obstructed… resulting in an ineffective braking system. That is why it is important that you periodically check your vehicle's brake lines and flush them if they are clogged.

Summing Up

The gist of this article is that a car owner should take care of the braking system of his vehicle. After all, it is the braking system that allows him to have control over the speed and maneuverability of the vehicle.

Therefore, if the brake pedals of your Mercedes feel hard, it is important that you check the brake boosters, calipers, brake lines, and other major components that you think may be the culprit. If you lack the technical skills required to deal with this kind of issue... then book an appointment at a trusted car service center.