There’s nothing more frustrating than having your bike brakes not work when you need them most. Whether you’re on a leisurely ride or commuting to work, a malfunctioning brake can be a serious safety hazard.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to troubleshoot and fix bike brakes that aren’t working. I’ll cover everything from simple adjustments to more complex repairs, so you can get back on your bike and enjoy your ride safely.
So if your bike brakes are acting up, don’t despair. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be back in business in no time.
Why How To Fix Bike Brakes Not Working
Causes of Brakes Not Working
Brake pads are worn out:
This is the most common cause of brakes not working. When the brake pads are worn out, they no longer have enough friction to slow down the bike.
Brake fluid is low or contaminated:
Brake fluid is needed to transfer the force from the brake lever to the brake pads. If the brake fluid is low or contaminated, it can cause the brakes to not work properly.
Brake rotors are warped:
Brake rotors can warp if they are subjected to excessive heat. This can cause the brakes to rub against the rotors and make a squealing noise.
Brake calipers are stuck:
Brake calipers can become stuck if they are not properly lubricated. This can prevent the brake pads from contacting the rotors and make the brakes ineffective.
Brake cables are frayed or stretched:
Brake cables can become frayed or stretched over time. This can cause the brakes to become less responsive.
Brake levers are damaged:
Brake levers can become damaged if they are dropped or subjected to other impacts. This can prevent the levers from properly actuating the brakes.
How to Fix Bike Brakes Not Working
Troubleshooting
If your bike brakes are not working, there are a few things you can check to troubleshoot the problem.
First, make sure that the brake pads are properly aligned with the brake rotors:
If the pads are not aligned, they will not be able to make contact with the rotors and stop the bike. To check the alignment, look at the pads from the side. The pads should be parallel to the rotors and should not be touching them. If the pads are not aligned, you can adjust them by turning the adjustment screws on the brake calipers.
Next, check the brake fluid level:
If the brake fluid level is low, the brakes will not be able to generate enough pressure to stop the bike. To check the brake fluid level, look at the reservoir on the brake calipers. The reservoir should be filled to the top with brake fluid. If the brake fluid level is low, you will need to add more brake fluid.
Finally, check the brake rotors for damage:
If the brake rotors are damaged, they will not be able to stop the bike effectively. To check the brake rotors, look for any cracks, grooves, or other damage. If the brake rotors are damaged, you will need to have them replaced.
How to Fix Brakes That Are Not Working
Once you have troubleshooted the problem, you can fix the brakes that are not working.
If the brake pads are not aligned, you can adjust them by turning the adjustment screws on the brake calipers:
Turn the screws clockwise to move the pads closer to the rotors and counterclockwise to move the pads away from the rotors. Once the pads are aligned, you should be able to stop the bike without any problems.
If the brake fluid level is low, you will need to add more brake fluid:
To do this, remove the cap from the reservoir on the brake calipers and add brake fluid until the reservoir is full. Be careful not to overfill the reservoir.
If the brake rotors are damaged, you will need to have them replaced:
To do this, remove the old rotors and install new rotors. Be sure to install the rotors in the correct orientation.
Once you have fixed the brakes that are not working, you should be able to stop the bike safely.
Preventative Maintenance
You can prevent bike brakes from not working by performing regular maintenance.
Check the brake pads for wear and tear every few weeks:
If the brake pads are worn down, they will not be able to stop the bike effectively. To check the brake pads, look at the pads from the side. The pads should be at least 1mm thick. If the pads are thinner than 1mm, you will need to replace them.
Check the brake fluid level every few months:
If the brake fluid level is low, the brakes will not be able to generate enough pressure to stop the bike. To check the brake fluid level, look at the reservoir on the brake calipers. The reservoir should be filled to the top with brake fluid. If the brake fluid level is low, you will need to add more brake fluid.
Inspect the brake rotors for damage every few months:
If the brake rotors are damaged, they will not be able to stop the bike effectively. To check the brake rotors, look for any cracks, grooves, or other damage. If the brake rotors are damaged, you will need to have them replaced.
By performing regular maintenance, you can help to prevent bike brakes from not working.
FAQs: How to Fix Bike Brakes Not Working
Why are my bike brakes not working?
There are a few reasons why your bike brakes might not be working. Here are some of the most common:
The brake pads are worn out: This is the most common cause of brake failure. When the brake pads wear down, they no longer have enough friction to stop the bike.
The brake fluid is low or contaminated: Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that transfers the force of your brake lever to the brake calipers. If the brake fluid is low or contaminated, it can cause the brakes to become spongy or ineffective.
The brake calipers are seized: If the brake calipers are seized, they won’t be able to apply pressure to the brake rotors. This can cause the brakes to drag or not work at all.
The brake rotors are warped: If the brake rotors are warped, they won’t be able to create enough friction to stop the bike. This can cause the brakes to squeal or make a grinding noise.
The brake cables are frayed or damaged: If the brake cables are frayed or damaged, they won’t be able to transmit the force of your brake lever to the brake calipers. This can cause the brakes to be spongy or ineffective.
How do I fix my bike brakes?
The best way to fix your bike brakes is to take your bike to a qualified bike mechanic. However, if you’re comfortable working on your own bike, you can follow these steps:
1. Inspect the brake pads: If the brake pads are worn down to the metal backing, they need to be replaced. To replace the brake pads, you’ll need to remove the wheel and caliper. Once the caliper is removed, you can simply pop out the old brake pads and install the new ones.
2. Check the brake fluid level: The brake fluid reservoir is located on the top of the brake caliper. If the brake fluid level is low, you’ll need to add more fluid. To add brake fluid, you’ll need to remove the reservoir cap and fill the reservoir to the fill line.
3. Bleed the brakes: If the brake fluid is low or contaminated, you’ll need to bleed the brakes. To bleed the brakes, you’ll need to remove the bleed screws on the caliper and pump the brake lever until new fluid comes out of the bleed screws.
4. Inspect the brake calipers: If the brake calipers are seized, you’ll need to remove them and clean and lubricate them. To remove the calipers, you’ll need to remove the wheel and loosen the caliper bolts. Once the calipers are removed, you can clean and lubricate them with brake caliper grease.
5. Inspect the brake rotors: If the brake rotors are warped, you’ll need to have them replaced. To replace the brake rotors, you’ll need to remove the wheels and calipers. Once the rotors are removed, you can install the new rotors.
6. Inspect the brake cables: If the brake cables are frayed or damaged, you’ll need to replace them. To replace the brake cables, you’ll need to remove the old cables and install the new cables.
What should I do if my bike brakes are still not working after I’ve tried to fix them?
If your bike brakes are still not working after you’ve tried to fix them, you should take your bike to a qualified bike mechanic. A bike mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and fix it properly.
How can I prevent my bike brakes from failing?
There are a few things you can do to prevent your bike brakes from failing:
Inspect your brakes regularly: Check the brake pads for wear and tear, and check the brake fluid level.
Bleed your brakes regularly: This will help to prevent air bubbles from forming in the brake lines, which can cause the brakes to become spongy or ineffective.
Don’t ride your bike in the rain: Water can get into the brake calipers and cause them to seize.
Don’t overload your bike: Carrying too much weight can put extra strain on the brakes and cause them to fail.
Use your brakes properly: Don’t slam on the brakes, and don’t ride your bike with your brakes engaged.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your bike brakes working properly and ensure your safety on the road.
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