What could be a possible reason for a soft and spongy brake pedal in a vehicle?

A soft and spongy brake pedal can indicate problems within the braking system that affect its ability to apply pressure effectively. Low brake fluid level is one significant reason, as the brake fluid is essential for transferring force from the brake pedal to the brake components. If the fluid level is low, there may not be enough hydraulic pressure to operate the brakes properly, resulting in a soft pedal feel.

Worn brake pads can also contribute to this issue. As brake pads wear down, they may not make proper contact with the brake rotor, leading to reduced braking efficiency. This lack of effective contact can cause the pedal to feel softer due to the increased distance required to engage the brakes fully.

A faulty brake caliper is yet another potential cause. The caliper is responsible for gripping the brake pads against the rotors. If the caliper is malfunctioning—due, for example, to a stuck piston or a fluid leak—this can prevent sufficient clamping force from being applied, which will also result in a spongy feel at the pedal.

Overall, any of these issues can result in a soft and spongy brake pedal, thus supporting the conclusion that all of the options represent possible reasons for this phenomenon.