Changed Brake Fluid Yet Pedal Goes To Floor

**mercedeslimos** · 13-12-2011,07:28 PM

Hi all.

Need help!

Changed my brake (and clutch) fluid today on my 2006 Passat TDI using a Vizibleed one-man bleeder. (clear pipe with a check valve in it).

Clutch feels way better than it was before, nice low bite point again. The fluid that came out was disgusting (Yellow goo from the clutch, horrid brown from the brakes).

The brakes pump up fine when stationary and the engine off. But when the engine is started (and the servo kicks in) the pedal sinks to the floor gradually.

During normal braking the brakes definitely feel sharper, but a lower bite point. Under heavy braking the pedal goes all the way to the floor.

What have I done wrong?

Was it taking the fluid out of the reservoir with a syringe before I bled?

Not a happy bunny, what was supposed to be a simple job has gone wrong!

Sam

**rapport25** · 13-12-2011,07:41 PM

Sounds like you have air in the system. I would suggest re bleading.

**rapport25** · 13-12-2011,07:46 PM

Hows does the pedal feel? If spongy I would say you have trapped air.

Hth's

Rappy.

**mercedeslimos** · 13-12-2011,07:49 PM

Bled them after a drive. Tiny bit better, but same story. Bled them RF, RR, LR, LF.

**martin1810** · 13-12-2011,07:51 PM

Sounds like you need to completely bleed the system correctly.

**mercedeslimos** · 13-12-2011,07:57 PM

how is that done martin?

**rapport25** · 13-12-2011,08:05 PM

2 man job.

**mercedeslimos** · 13-12-2011,08:09 PM

i have the one-man bleeder with the non-return valve, and tightly clipped over the nipple so no air gets in

**vwcabriolet1971** · 13-12-2011,08:25 PM

I've always found it's better to bleed & replace the brake fluid with a presure kit . Halfords sell a Gunson's kit which is quite inexpensive . I've had one for many years and use it quite often on the families cars without any problems.