Hydraulic System: Testing and Inspection

BRAKE FLUID LEAKS

With the engine at idle and the transmission in "PARK," apply and hold constant foot pressure on the brake pedal. If the pedal gradually falls away, the hydraulic system may have external leakage, internal leakage or incorrect component adjustment. Begin by performing a visual inspection of the hydraulic system. Check the brake master cylinder fluid level. A slightly low brake fluid level in either reservoir can result from normal lining wear. An abnormally low fluid level indicates a leak in the system. A full master cylinder does not always mean there is no leakage. Slight leakage can occur and not appear as a fluid level condition. If no external leaks are found, an internal leakage condition may be the cause. This relates to an internal brake master/cylinder condition. The brake master cylinder may require disassembly. Service and Repair