Originally Posted by Psimet2001

1st - SRAM hydraulic brakes are really really sub-par. This assertion is based on working with them extensively since their introduction on road a few years back. It has been affirmed by other mechanics who also belong to the Pro Bicycle Mechanics Association with me. I tend to be nicer than they are. They always recommend trashing them instantly.

In general because they are a DOT synthetic system the seals used tend to swell over time - regardless of what they say. Based on simply reading your post I immediately said, "do a bleed" as that is exactly what we would do here first. Sounds like there is too much air inthe system and or you have a piston seal that has swollen and is sticking. A bleed is usually the only real service that I can see someone doing at home but still it's not for most. Also just because a shop says they can do it doesn't mean they can. For a guide bleed prices are usually in the ballpark of $25-$45 per wheel. if it is a good shop they will probably tell you that they will try a bleed once and then they are going to call SRAm service and warranty the lever and caliper. ....it's how we live in a SRAM world. In reality though is the bleed doesn't work then you probably need a piston service. If you can feel the lever move and it isn't even contacting the master cylinder rod until you're like halfway through the stroke then that is also a known issue. You have to lube it. That requires that you remove the lever and have the lube for their hydraulic system which will aggravate the hell out of your skin if you allow it to contact any part of it.

Have fun.