Something we may take for granted...brakes

[david]

Sean:

Now that you have determined that it was two separate (but linked to corrosion) failures of the brake systems, ask your mechanic why the brake light didn't come on when the first system failed. I think that the indicator light has also been part of dual circuit brake systems for decades.

David

[charliem]

Sean:

Now that you have determined that it was two separate (but linked to corrosion) failures of the brake systems, ask your mechanic why the brake light didn't come on when the first system failed. I think that the indicator light has also been part of dual circuit brake systems for decades.

David

[font size="3"]Same thought here when I read Sean's post. From my past, bleeding one system did not automatically reset the brake light. It should have come on unless they both failed with the same brake application. [/font]

[admin]

It is entirely possible that this occurred very rapidly. I did not notice a drop in fluid levels, 'oil spots', or increased stopping distance prior to the failure. If the system had detected a fault prior it should have had an in dash message. I know with the major failure it certainly came on with a service message indicating a brake system issue.

[daplumbr]

I think Sean has it right' essentially simultaneous failure with the increased brake pressure from one failure leading immediately to the second in a weakened line. Scary. 

[idlerockfarm]

I'm going to call BS on manufacturing vs maintenance issue.  My Subaru has a recall notice to the dealer to have them look for corrosion on brake lines and replace as needed IIRC.  GMC should have done the same.  Boo on them for KNOWING about an issue and not being proactive about contacting owners.

That sounded terrifying.  I"m glad you're okay.

[keeena]

Just saw this thread - glad everything worked out Sean! Most people never train for these scenarios so you reacted well.

When I read the first post, I immediately thought "he has a Chevy/GM Pickup". They are notorious for broken brake lines due to rust (at least the 99-07 models, as far as I remember). I had one of mine blow while towing about 5k lbs. Thankfully it happened at 5mph in the parking lot. I replaced every line w/ stainless steel lines after that.

Pretty sure my '03 Sierra had dual circuits, but the pedal still went to the floor (although a bit slowly...was a pinhole leak).