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2012 Brake issue

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Main Forum' started by Colin_S, Aug 21, 2018.

  1. Colin_S

    Colin_S Junior Member

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    Hi there.

    I have a 2012 Prius that has 110k km (68k miles) on it and in the last couple of weeks I'm noticing when if I have to step on the brakes hard (but not standing on them), during the slow down the brakes feel like it gives a bit and that I have to step on it harder to slow down. I know there was a brake problem with the first 2010s and searching the forum has been a bit difficult but I'm wondering if anyone else has experienced this and what may be the cause?

    Thank you.
     
    #1 Colin_S, Aug 21, 2018
  2. Grit

    Grit Senior Member

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    Low brake fluid or brake pads near end of life.
     
    #2 Grit, Aug 21, 2018
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  3. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    does this happen at any particular speed?
     
    #3 bisco, Aug 21, 2018
  4. Colin_S

    Colin_S Junior Member

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    Hmm I had an oil change & replaced my rear pads and rotors just two months ago but perhaps they didnt check the brake fluid. I've been debating if I should bring it in to get checked out.

    @bisco I notice it more in rush hour traffic, I accelerate quite quickly and sometimes have to step on the brake hard to slow down if something pops up. No problems on the highway where I have lots of time to gently slow down.
     
    #4 Colin_S, Aug 21, 2018
  5. Johnny Cakes

    Johnny Cakes Senior Member

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    +1

    I'd also add air in the brake line as a very probable cause or a master cylinder issue (like seals) less probable but certainly possible.
     
    #5 Johnny Cakes, Aug 21, 2018
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  6. FuelMiser

    FuelMiser Senior Member

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    Bingo! Your shop probably introduced air into the brake lines during this work. Air in the brake lines compresses and you get a spongy pedal like you are experiencing. You need to have your brake fluid bled and replaced by a reputable shop to rid the lines of any air...
     
    #6 FuelMiser, Aug 22, 2018
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  7. Colin_S

    Colin_S Junior Member

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    Ok that makes sense, thank you for your responses. It was done at the dealer but I guess mistakes happen everywhere, I'll get them to look into it.
     
    #7 Colin_S, Aug 22, 2018
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