Causes of brake fluid leaks
Corrosion and rust
Brake lines are prone to corrosion and rust over time, especially when exposed to moisture, road salt, and temperature changes. This can cause holes in the brake lines and eventually leaks. Regular inspections can help you spot rust problems before they become bigger problems.
Worn or damaged components
Brake fluid leaks can be caused by worn or damaged parts of your brake system. These include the master brake cylinder, wheel brake cylinders, brake calipers, and brake hoses. If any of these components become worn or damaged, brake fluid can leak from the system.
Fittings and Connections
When connecting various brake hoses and components, the connection points and fittings are often the source of leaks. This can include loose or broken fittings that can leak fluid.
How to Diagnose a Brake Fluid Leak
Master Cylinder Leak
You should do a quick visual inspection of the master cylinder, as this is the easiest way to do it. Check the condition of the master cylinder parts to see if there is any fluid on the outside.
Brake line leaks
Here, you need to visually inspect under the chassis of your vehicle to see if there is brake fluid left on the floor. If so, you will be able to see the approximate location of the leak.
If the fluid is leaking, it is wise to lay some newspapers on the ground under the car to stop the fluid leaking all over the place. Even better are garage floor mats that exist for this very purpose. These are the ideal way to contain brake fluid leaks or any kind of fluid leak from your car.
To check for leaks, get in the car and depress the brake pedal to squeeze out any remaining brake fluid. You can then safely crawl under the car again to pinpoint the exact location of the leak. Once you find the leak, you can repair or replace the brake lines.
Brake Caliper Leaks (or Rear Drum Cylinders)
Check the Brake Calipers or Rear Drum Cylinders: This step requires you to open up each tire and check each brake caliper for leaks. If you are checking rear brakes with brake drums, you will need to open up the drums and check the drum cylinders inside the brake drums.
Distinguishing Brake Fluid Leaks from Other Leaks
Knowing when a brake fluid leak or any other leak occurs is very important. How to tell the difference between brake fluid and other common automotive fluids.
Transmission Fluid
Unlike brake fluid, which appears clear or light brown when new and darkens over time, transmission fluid usually stays a reddish or reddish-brown color unless burned.
In addition, the location of the leak can sometimes provide valuable information. Transmission fluid leaks occur near the transmission, often near the front of the vehicle, while brake fluid leaks usually occur more in the center or near the wheels.
Engine Oil
Like transmission fluid, engine oil has a distinct color that distinguishes it from brake fluid. Motor oil is generally golden, dark brown, or almost black, depending on its age and condition.
Motor oil also has a thicker consistency than brake fluid, making it easier to spot when investigating for a leak. The location of the leak also plays an important role. If you notice a leak coming from the engine or near the oil pan, engine oil is more likely to be the culprit.
Condensation You probably wouldn’t think of conflating condensation with brake fluid, but condensation can occur. You often notice droplets of water coming from your car’s air conditioner or exhaust, especially in humid weather.
Unlike brake fluid, which has a distinctive chemical odor, condensation is usually clear and odorless. Plus, brake fluid feels slippery, whereas condensation isn’t.