Automobile & Light Truck Certification Test A5 BrakesHydraulic System Diagnosis and RepairMedium
A technician is performing a brake inspection. They notice a bulge or swelling on a flexible rubber brake hose near the caliper. What is the MOST likely consequence of this condition?
- APremature wear of the brake pads on the opposite wheel.
- BDelayed brake release on the affected wheel.
- CA spongy brake pedal and reduced braking efficiency.
- DReduced brake pedal effort.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. A spongy brake pedal and reduced braking efficiency.
A bulging or swollen flexible brake hose indicates internal damage and weakening. When brake pressure is applied, the hose expands excessively, absorbing some of the hydraulic pressure, which results in a spongy pedal and reduced braking efficiency.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While a spongy pedal affects overall braking, it wouldn't directly cause premature wear on the *opposite* wheel's pads; it would reduce braking on the affected side.
- B. Delayed brake release is typically caused by a *collapsed* internal hose lining, not a bulge/swelling.
- D. Reduced brake pedal effort would imply an increase in power assist, which is unrelated to a bulging hose.
Bulging Brake Hose
A bulging or swollen flexible brake hose indicates internal damage, causing it to expand under pressure, which leads to a spongy pedal and reduced braking efficiency.
- Internal layers have failed.
- Absorbs hydraulic pressure.
- Causes spongy pedal and potentially uneven braking.
Memory trick: A bulge in the hose means a spongy path, losing pressure in its wrath.