Intermittent brake failure
I have been experiencing unusual brake failure in 2 vehicles, 2001 Ford F150, 2004 Dodge 1500. Both trucks have perfectly good brakes and operate as expected. Except in the following cases:
1 With a one day change in elevation from sea level to 8000 feet, the hydraulic system for the brakes in both trucks has intermittently failed completely, with the emergency brake being the primary way to stop the vehicle. This condition lasts for a few hours and then disappears as rapidly as it appeared.
2 The brakes function normally except during the occasional panic stop. 99% of the time the brakes function as expected however 1 % of the time even with full two foot pressure on the brakes, from about 5 to 10 mph - no lock up, no ABS vibration, simply a slow gentle stop - right into the vehicle in front of me.
Fluid level - check, Brake pads and calipers - check, rotors - check. No visible leaks.
Remember, the brakes are in working order, and they work properly 99% of the time.
I am at a loss to understand why this is happening. Any suggestions are welcome
1 With a one day change in elevation from sea level to 8000 feet, the hydraulic system for the brakes in both trucks has intermittently failed completely, with the emergency brake being the primary way to stop the vehicle. This condition lasts for a few hours and then disappears as rapidly as it appeared.
2 The brakes function normally except during the occasional panic stop. 99% of the time the brakes function as expected however 1 % of the time even with full two foot pressure on the brakes, from about 5 to 10 mph - no lock up, no ABS vibration, simply a slow gentle stop - right into the vehicle in front of me.
Fluid level - check, Brake pads and calipers - check, rotors - check. No visible leaks.
Remember, the brakes are in working order, and they work properly 99% of the time.
I am at a loss to understand why this is happening. Any suggestions are welcome
