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I just replaced my front and rear rotors (new pads as well) on my 2002 ML500. I did not break into the fluid lines and now I am not getting full pedal. It seems low and soft feeling. The pedal was fine before I put pads/rotors on. They were close to needing replacement so I did it before they started making noise. Do I need to bleed the system? How is this done? Any info would be great.

If you purchesed MB pads and rotors, you will need to seat them in, that is get them hot. I usually just go down the road and apply the brakes intermittently without letting up on the accelerator. 10 to 15 times at 50 mph or so is good enough. You will feel a noticabe difference right away. If you don't, try locking up the brakes forward and reverse 3 or 4 times. That should do the trick.

Could you explain getting the brakes hot in more detail - I didn't do that either, but this was month's agao - are they seated now?

I just bled my breaks and there is some improvement, so that may work for you - lot's of info on this forum on how to. I need to do my rear pads next, and wonder if this will improve the pedal feel further...anyone?

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Francis E. Abate
Automotive Restoration & Preservation
Sheet metal, trim and upholstery