Brake Fluid Leaks

EXTERNAL LEAK TEST
With the engine at idle and the transmission in "Neutral," 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.

FLUID LEVEL INSPECTION
Check the 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.

NOTE: For information on master cylinder fluid levels, refer to Master Cylinder, Specifications.

Internal Leak
If external leaks are not found an internal leakage condition may be the cause. This relates to an internal master cylinder condition. To diagnose internal leakage, the master cylinder will require disassembly.