Q: No brakes when starting

asked by on August 18, 2016

When I go out to my Turbo in the morning there are not brakes!!! When I first start the car there aren’t any brakes! My brake pedal goes all the way to the floor when I step on it. After a minute the pressure builds up, and then I have brakes. Why is this happening? Is this normal for a Solstice? It sure doesn't seem right. Thanks.

Brake System Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote
Brake System Flush $112.95 - $138.94 Get a Quote

Hey there, there are several possibilities for this to occur on your 2008 Pontiac Solstice. In this case, it sounds like there could be moisture building up in the lines or a leak causing air to enter the hydraulic braking system. If you would like to have an expert check this out for you, a certified pro from YourMechanic can come to your location to diagnose your brake system and determine what should be done. You may be in need of a brake fluid flush if no leaks are present.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Car overheating.
Hi there. The check engine light on this vehicle can turn on from the engine running too cold and too hot. If the coolant level was low from the beginning then the system should have been pressure tested to identify...
Coolant leaking from car
Hi, I would check inside the engine bay for residue, mainly around the water pump and on the motor itself. There are seals that can leak slowly over time making it difficult to find the source. You can also check...
Does the replacement of a thermostat include replacing the housing? I was told I needed to replace the thermostat housing.
Hi, thanks for writing in. The thermostat housing and the thermostat itself are two different components and do not necessarily need to be replaced together or at the same time. The housing is just a piece that covers the thermostat...
Red Generator light and squeal at start. After stop, won't restart.
Before condemning the alternator, have the drive belt checked to see if it is loose from a stretched belt or worn belt tensioner. If the belt is loose and slipping on the alternator, the alternator will not be able to...
What will happen to my car if the rpm is high when idling?
If the "idle" speed is over 1,200 RPM, it's not wise to drive the car both for safety reasons and due to the possibility of repeated harsh transmission engagements and driveline wear. The vehicle's drivetrain was not designed to accommodate...
my car will not start after putting fuel in the tank, what could be the reason for this happening? 2006 Kia Rio 5
The EVAP purge valve might be stuck open. Is so, that will throw off the air fuel ratio enough to cause the problem you are describing. The purge valve can be tested, just request EVAP system testing - purge valve...
Jerking while accelerating now it won't start had to get tow home car felt as if it was rolling
Based upon the symptoms you are describing, it sounds like you may have a faulty camshaft position sensor. The camshaft position sensor is a magnetic sensor that monitors camshaft speed to regulate ignition timing and fuel injection timing. It gathers...
Jeep starts fine but then won’t move. Only rev. Only happens when it sits overnight. I have a Jeep Wrangler, 112000 miles
Hi Meagan. Thanks for contacting us today. Usually when you can shift into reverse, but the car will not go forward in drive, then it's caused by a damaged shift solenoid or internal transmission problems. An obstruction of debris inside...
Murano 2004 step motor P1778 rpm transmutation failures
The reason you cannot get the step motor is due to it is an internal transmission component and this transmission is a CVT transmission and not rebuildable and must be replaced since no repair parts are available.

Related articles

Symptoms of Bad or Failing Brake Pads
If your brakes are noisy, the brake pedal is pulsating, or the brakes are responding poorly, you may need to replace the brake pads.
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Emergency / Parking Brake Cable
Common signs include the parking brake not holding the car properly (or not functioning at all) and the Parking Brake Light coming on.
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Parking Brake Release Cable
If the parking brake won't engage or disengage, or the car feels sluggish and dragging, you may need to replace the parking brake release cable.