Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
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HOMESERVICE MANUALSCHEVROLET2006COBALT SS, 4D SEDAN, STANDARDREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISEXTERNAL PAGESDIFFERENT CARSECTION 726 (CONVENTIONAL BRAKE COMPONENTS)CONVENTIONAL BRAKE COMPONENTSBRAKE SYSTEM INSPECTION AND TESTBRAKE SYSTEM TESTBRAKE PEDAL SINKS/FADES WHEN BRAKING
2006 Chevrolet Cobalt SS, 4D Sedan, Standard
Brake pedal sinks/fades when braking
2006 Chevrolet Cobalt SS, 4D Sedan, StandardSECTION Brake pedal sinks/fades when braking
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Honda Insight and 2010 Honda Insight. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Set the parking brake, and start the engine, then turn off the A/C. Allow the engine to warm up to normal operating temperature (radiator fan comes on twice).
- Attach a 50 mm (2 in) piece of masking tape along the bottom of the steering wheel, and draw a horizontal reference mark across it.
- With the transmission in P or N, press and hold the brake pedal lightly (about the same pressure needed to keep a CVT-equipped vehicle from creeping), then release the parking brake.
- While still holding the brake pedal, hook the end of the tape measure behind the brake pedal, then pull the tape up to the steering wheel. Note the measurement between the brake pedal and the reference mark on the steering wheel.
- Apply steady pressure to the brake pedal for 3 minutes.
- Watch the tape measure.
- If the measurement increases 10 mm (3/8 in) or less, the master cylinder is OK.
- If the measurement increases more than 10 mm (3/8 in), replace the master cylinder.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.