2000 SE Brake Problem

Today, shortly after driving through a large puddle, I noticed a problem with the brakes on my 2000 SE. The pedal felt hard on first application and braking was slow as if the power assist was gone. The more I drive the car, the more it seems to improve, but I can't seem to pinpoint where the problem is coming from. Any ideas?

Todd Kuzma Tullio's Big Dog Cyclery LaSalle, IL 815-223-1776 http://www.tullios.com Raleigh-Schwinn-Specialized Bianchi-Waterford-Heron

How many miles do you have on it? It took mine about 1 or 2 K until the brakes seemed to be ok in the water. They really scared me the first time in the rain. At 8600 miles I don't notice it now. Give them a chance to brake (no pun intended) in.

Dave - Spitball

11/9/00 4:28 PM:

It was still a bad pun but it amused me nonetheless.

Amy and Seeger '91 Silverstone 'A'

'The horizon is nothing save the limit of our sight.'

About 4300 miles. I've driven in the rain quite a bit, and this was quite a noticeable difference.

Todd Kuzma Tullio's Big Dog Cyclery LaSalle, IL 815-223-1776 http://www.tullios.com Raleigh-Schwinn-Specialized Bianchi-Waterford-Heron

All I can say is give it a chance. I put a lot of highway miles on mine, like 80 miles a day at mostly 55-70 mph. If you just drive it around town, it may take a while to get broken in. Get it out and work the brakes on the highway. I drove mine home in the rain today and had no problem.

I posted a similar problem with my 2000 Miata, I have found braking to be inconsistent in wet weather. All I can say is to leave plenty of room in front of you and brake early when you drive in the rain. FWIW....

I haven't had the problem before yesterday and today the brakes seem fine. I wonder if the extra large puddle caused water to be splashed onto the rotors and pads. If so, would this make a big difference in braking and brake feel?

Todd Kuzma Tullio's Big Dog Cyclery LaSalle, IL 815-223-1776 http://www.tullios.com Raleigh-Schwinn-Specialized Bianchi-Waterford-Heron

I usually get the 'no brakes for 5-10 seconds' symptom when driving on the highway in steady rain or when the road starts to collect alot of water. I suspect the rotors can't bleed of the water fast enough. I've really had to adjust my driving habits in wet weather, but the problem is also inconsistent. I'm suprised that the brakes behave this way since my 'beater' 94 Taurus wagon never has this problem (sigh).

I just noticed the problem again after leaving the car wash. After a few brake applications, it seems to go away. So, I guess it's wet rotors. Thanks to everyone for the suggestions!

Todd Kuzma Tullio's Big Dog Cyclery LaSalle, IL 815-223-1776 http://www.tullios.com Raleigh-Schwinn-Specialized Bianchi-Waterford-Heron

Try quality slotted (PowerSlot) or drilled (PowerStop) rotors, at least on the front. This problem vanished on my '97 when I swapped to the PowerStops & fresh MetalMasters.,,, - bill