Strange Brake Problem

[NotMyBeetle]

OK...so I had the F/R pads and rotors replaced about 1.5 years back at a reputable place and they have worked fine. Just recently (this winter) when the weather is very cold, and usually when there is snow on the road, the brakes seem to just plain fail. Pedal nearly goes to the floor, E-brake has no tension also. Next day all works fine??? Anybody have any ideas? Anybody suggest a good shop near Fort Collins, CO? This is my wifes Beetle, and although reputable, the guys at the last shop were less than friendly to her, so we won't be going back and I'd rather not take it to the stealership.

Thanks

Court

[Lnzbug]

Same thing kinda happens to me. It was a hose but I don't know which one & the hubby doesn't either. The guys at dubwerks connected the hose for me but they can't remember which one it was Only happens in the rain or snow. I think it's one going to the booster but don't take my word for it I'm just a chick not a mechanic. Try pressing the brake every once in a while while driving. It helps keep the pressure up for when you really need them. I'm going to bring my car back to them to see what they can find since John is being an @@s. I'll post what they find. It started happening for me after my tires were rotated at a national chain. I think it's how they jack it up that disconnects the hose somehow. Sorry about the long reply. I tend to babble

[BUGSTUFF]

This may or may not be the problem but it's probably a good time to stress that the brake fluid needs to be flushed every two years regardless of the mileage. Brake fluid attracts water and the water can freeze in the cold weather.

This sounds like a problem with the rear calipers as the e-brake goes to the rears. Ellen, did you have a CEL when the booster hose was unplugged? I would think that a loose or bad hose would trigger some sort of vacuum CEL.

I'd take it to the dealership if necessary - brake problems really shouldn't be messed with.

Good luck and report back with the details.

[Lnzbug]

Kirk darlin my cell is on constantly! It's always p0411 secondary air. Don't worry, I changed my beneficiary I know, that's why I'm going to DubWerks this week and not waiting for John.

[NotMyBeetle]

After a trip to Vee-W Unlimited in Loveland, CO the problem seems to be solved! Both E-brake cables were jacked. One was rusted through and the other had a kink in it. The guys there were great...they had replaced F/R pads and rotors about a year ago and they warranted all the labor to replace the rear pads/rotors that were jacked from the E-brake debacle. All in all only cost us about $250 to replace both E-brake cables and rear pads and rotors.

[vdubbugman53]

next time check out SCR in loveland. Owners name is Mark and he is amazing. he works on several race cars (BMW, Mini, Audi, VW) but he also just does the normal maintnence on cars. think the website is www.scrperformance.com