Got an '03, mechanic checked the whole brake system, replaced all the brake lines because one blew, and bled it. Said everything is good.
Tested it out, got some speed and slammed on the brakes. Yes, it brakes, but I gotta press the pedal all the way down before it starts braking.
It also makes a very noticeable "whoosh" sound when the brake pedal moves up and down. Is that normal? I don't notice it in other cars.

(To re-word a bit, there seems to be a lot of travel for the brake pedal before it actually engages the brakes.)

For comparison, I drove a new rental car recently and I had to get re-adjusted because the slightest tap on the brake pedal gave me a lot of stopping power.

Wondering if this is normal for these cars or something else is going on and I gotta replace my master cylinder or brake booster or something.

 

Hi there. This may not help but will share. I have a 2008 Tribute and if I disconnect the battery for any reason. The brake system seems to reset and goes out of adjustment. This happened again last week when I needed a new battery after 5 years. I was wondering why I had to push my pedal so hard. Then I remembered what happens to the brakes when I disconnect the battery. I pulled over into an empty parking lot. Checked behind me, put the car in reverse and drove backward about 7 yards and pressed the brakes firmly to stop the car. I did this two more times. Each time you can feel the brakes adjust and get tighter. Now... my brakes are great once again.

This is an old school way to adjust your brakes, driving in reverse and pressing firmly to stop the car. The brake system will-self adjust in most cars. So, even if you didn't disconnect your battery, it's worth a try. Good Luck!

Arlie