Volvo Brake Assist Issues: Warning Signs & Solutions

Volvo is one of the most sought-after luxury cars in the world due to its luxury and safety which makes it stand out from its competitors. However, issues with the functioning of the brake assist system can adversely affect the running of your car and put your life at risk as it is designed to respond during emergency situations.

The brake assist system is a highly sophisticated part and identifying the early signs of failure holds the key to preventing the issues from acquiring gigantic proportions. In this article, we will discuss the warning signs associated with the system’s failure & its solutions.

Stopping Distance Increases

One of the first signs that you are going to come across when the brake assist system fails in your Volvo is the increase in the stopping distance of your high-end car when you apply the brakes. The brake assist system is responsible for applying additional braking force in times of emergencies.

However, due to the malfunctioning of the brake assist system, the stopping distance is going to increase and it puts you at an increased risk of collisions. Most of the time problems with the functioning of the brake booster, vacuum system, or inadequate brake fluid levels lead to failure of the brake assist system.

You need to inspect the brake fluid levels in your luxury car to ensure there aren’t any leaks in the system. However, if the fluid level is adequate then you need to get in touch with a Volvo specialist to help inspect the brake booster and vacuum system.

At times, it is noticed that recalibrating the system with the help of Volvo’s diagnostic software can help fix the problem. If the brake booster is failing then you must replace it with a new one so that your optimal braking performance is restored.

Illuminated Brake Warning Light

Nowadays, all the modern cars including your Volvo comes equipped with a host of warning light located on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you come across an illuminated brake warning light then it indicates to multiple problems ranging from low brake fluid levels to a failing sensor or electronic brake control module (EBCM) failure.

Besides that, some drivers have the habit of ignoring the brake warning light and this can have an adverse effect on the entire braking system leading to complete failure. You might also get to see intermittent flashing of the light before the system completely gives up.

Whenever you see the warning light flashing on the dashboard, you must immediately have a look at the brake fluid levels and if they are adequate then you need to use a diagnostic scanner to check for the fault codes. Most of the time it is seen that carrying out regular software updates can help in preventing & resolving the problem.

However, if the problem is caused due to mechanical failures like a worn-out brake pad or warped brake rotors then replacing the damaged components is going to fix the warning light.

Sluggish Brake Engagement

While pressing the brake pedal if your brakes give a delayed response then it indicates issues with the brake assist system. In addition to that, a sluggish response from your brakes can be extremely dangerous in emergency braking scenarios as it increases the risk of collisions.

Often the problem is caused due to air trapped in the brake lines, a failing master cylinder, or a bad brake assist module. Furthermore, you will also observe that the pedal feels normal at times, then it will become sluggish. You should get in touch with a certified mechanic to diagnose your brake system & take remedial measures to fix the issues.

Unusual Noise from the Brake Pedal

If you get to hear a hissing noise when pressing the brake pedal then it indicates that there is a vacuum leak in the brake booster. In fact, the brake booster is completely reliant on vacuum pressure to help in the braking response and in case there is a leak then it reduces your braking efficiency.

Now, you should inspect the brake booster and its vacuum hose for presence of any leaks and most of the time it is found that the issue lies with a cracked or loose vacuum hose that should be replaced immediately.

Finally

The above-discussed factors are some of the warning signs associated with a failing brake assist system and ways to fix the problems. Whenever you come across any problems with the brake system of your Volvo then you must immediately get in touch with a certified auto repair shop to fix the issues without any delay.

Medway Imports is a family owned Bosch authorized auto sales & repair center in Medway, MA since 1997 with gratified customers and high quality Bosch trained technicians. It specializes in the service of BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Porsche, Mini Cooper.