PDA

View Full Version : Leaking brakes - Problem searched

Chillaxed 240sx
06-05-2006, 07:45 PM
All right, I have a small problem.

I'm steadily having to continue to add brake fluid to my car. It's non-ABS and I haven't found any puddles that pool underneath the car. Any idea what/where I should look? I'm not very well experienced with brake systems, so this is a problem that is somewhat new to me.

Thanks to any and all help that you can offer.
NIK90s13
06-05-2006, 08:28 PM
Check at the mastercylinder for fluid leak, pull yor wheels off and look at/feel/ inspect the calipers, follow the lines from the calipers back to the mastercylinders, start there.
Chillaxed 240sx
06-05-2006, 08:54 PM
Thanks. I'm hopefully going to put the car on a lift this weekend to tear into my suspension, so that'll be a good time to do it. Correct me if I am wrong (I am still much a mechanical newb) - the master cylinder is directly below the brake fluid reservoir, right? I've seen pictures and it looks similar and logic would dictate that is where it would be, but I would like to clarify.
aznpoopy
06-05-2006, 08:56 PM
yes. the reservoir plugs into the top of the master cylinder.
NIK90s13
06-05-2006, 09:01 PM
Yea you got it, the master is under and attached to the reservoir, and getting the car on a lift is great, check all the calipers and the lines. I'm sure you will find it.
zads
06-06-2006, 02:54 AM
My brake fluid resevoir doesn't seal completely.. I drive hard on the street, and my car corners at 1g, so the fluid sloshes up and out the cap, and empties the resevoir so that there's only the minimum amount of fluid left. Check the wheel well area underneath your brake fluid resevoir.. if its wet, that's your problem.
S13Eye
06-06-2006, 03:10 AM
Damn, that is a problem. If the brakes go out, you could like die or something.

Inspect all lines and fittings for seepage. Check the seals around the calipers' pistons for any wetness. Now, the important one - the brake master cylinder could be leaking, and since its bolted to the brake booster, the fluid could be collecting inside and you would never see the leak. If you can't find any obvious leaks, pull off the brake booster and see if you can spill any fluid out of it.