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Brake Fluid Leak

Clear to brown, slippery fluid near a wheel or under the master cylinder can be brake fluid. Losing brake fluid can make the brakes fail.

Short answer · Can I drive with a brake fluid leak?

No. Brake fluid transfers the force from the pedal to the brakes, and a leak can make the pedal sink to the floor. If you suspect a leak or the brake warning light is on, have the car checked before driving, and transport it if needed.

On this page

Safe checks you can do

  1. Check the brake fluid levelThe reservoir is usually on the driver's side at the back of the engine bay.Do not open the reservoir if the fluid is very low; just note the level.
  2. Look at the inside of each wheelWet tyres, rims or a wet line near the brake hose point to a leak.
  3. Press the brake pedal with the engine offA pedal that slowly sinks under steady pressure is a warning sign.

Questions that narrow it down

  1. Is the brake warning light on?Often lights when the fluid level is low.
  2. Does the pedal feel soft or go low?Strong sign of a leak or air in the system.
  3. Is the fluid near a wheel?Points to a caliper, cylinder or hose.

Possible causes

Listed without ranking. Use the questions above to see which ones fit your car.

  1. Leaking brake hoseAgeing rubber hoses.
  2. Leaking caliper or wheel cylinderSeal failure.
  3. Corroded brake pipeCommon on older cars.
  4. Master cylinder leakFluid behind the reservoir or on the pedal box.

Questions about Brake Fluid Leak

Is a low brake fluid level always a leak?

Not always. The level drops slowly as the pads wear. A sudden drop or visible fluid means a leak.

How often should brake fluid be changed?

Follow your service schedule; many manufacturers specify every two years because the fluid absorbs water.