Hi everyone, I just bought a Bravo HLX 115 so I thought I would join this forum and hopefully get some advice that will compensate for my utter lack of technical knowledge.

I dont know if this is a problem or just that im not used to the car yet but when I press the brake pedal there is virtually no resistance (the car does slow slightly) and then it goes rock hard and cant be pressed anymore ( this slows the car down but seems a bit weak). Also when I pump the pedal it makes a hissing sound like air escaping.

Is this normal with Fiat ABS brakes or do I have a problem? All help appriciated.

Cheers, Stuey.

Sounds like an air bubble or leak.

The hissing noise will happen with the ignition off and you pump the pedal. it'll build pressure and the brake pedal will feel harder to press. This is normal. It shouldn't however do it with the engine running.

Check your brake fluid levels and report back. Also are the brake discs not contaminated?

I havent noticed any leaks so I take it I will have to bleed the brakes? what do you mean by the disks being contaminated and how will I find out if they are?

Basically if no oil has got onto the surface of the disc. It'll reduce friction drastically and will feel slow to brake. If contaminated would require replacing. Check your levels are correct. Look for leaks. Have the brakes been touched recently? A leak or damaged pipes would cause loss of braking if the brakes haven't been touched for renewal or repair.