So I just got my ae86 and the brakes feel soft, a bit too soft. To remedy this, do I just need to bleed the brakes or is it something more than that?

IndiaDorifto7 wrote:So I just got my ae86 and the brakes feel soft, a bit too soft. To remedy this, do I just need to bleed the brakes or is it something more than that?

I think that means that you need to bleed the brakes really well, so that no air is in the system. I'm sure that someone else here will be able to help you a bit better, though.

The real issue is how did the air get into the system. Check all the calipers and the master cylinder for any signs of brake fluid leaking around the pistons or M/C push rod. There could also be the possiblity that the hoses are so old that they are expanding under pressure, so check there condition as well. Dave W

See? Look at that! Already, another reply. ^^

Yup bleed brakes. Did you get a Haynes manual/ dl the FSM?

Could be master cylinder.

Could be your rubber break lines at the calipers. These get old with time and become some-what spongy. People like to replace them with stainless braided lines.

How long has it been since the brake fluid was changed completely? Brake fluid is hygroscopic, so it naturally absorbs moisture. Might be a good idea to flush all the old fluid out with new after replacing the old rubber lines. Might as well get a good set of pads in there while doing this work also, unless you already have a good set.

When bleeding AE86 brakes.... its best to have a block, or other limiting device, because the problem you are having may have been caused by brake bleeding!!!


I'm not sure of the reason... but if the AE86 master cylinder gets "bottomed out" it can cause tiny leaks to enter the master cylinder.

The only way to know this is to bleed the brakes(done when the car is not running), start the car, and CLOSELY watch the master cylinder reservoir as a friend presses down on the brakes (with the car running). IF tiny bubbles, bubble up and the pedal goes soft again, you need to replace the master cylinder.

When ever I bleed AE86 brakes by pumping the pedal... I tape a 4x4 block under the pedal so it can't bottom out

Not sure if it's a GTS or SR5, but if it's an SR5 check the wheel cylinders...

It' a GTS, Thanks for the advice guys! Bleeding the brakes is definitely on my to do list now, And also, are there any other brake problems I should look out for?

One of the first things I did when I got mine was indeed to bleed the brakes and throw in some Hawk pads... Nothing beats the fresh pedal feel with new pads.

^ hawk pads with stainless braided lines. feels awesome

^Winmax pads with stainless braided lines. Feels fantastic