Warning light and brake problems

[bazzii1388]

hey everyone,

my parents own a VP i think 1992 or 1993 Berlina. THe car was driving really well until just about 20 minutes ago when my parents came back and said the brakes were not working.

Description: that red warning light (!) is constantly on and when you put the brake pedal down it goes all the way down really easily and doesnt stop the car that well. ALso i noticed that there is heaps of fluid around the front drivers side wheel and there is fluid missing from the brake filler bottle thingy. WHen i turned the car on and looked at that bottle it seemed to be bubbling like it was leaking.

I was just wondering if anyone knows what the problem is. i know it has to be a leak but why?

ANy help is much appreciated

[Gudgeon]

sounds like a leak. probably rubbed through on something seeing as it's on the steer and they move. check wot's in reach of the hose. you'll have to bleed up the system again too.. starting furtherest away from the reservoir. thats'd be my guess.

[accentstencil]

Most probably a hole in the brake hose or a stuffed seal on the piston in the caliper. Check the hose for signs of fluid first.

[Morton]

Remove the front right wheel and inspect the caliper.

1) degrease
2) dry
3) reinstall
4) find source of leak
5) ??????
6) PROFIT


it's probably either a fractured hose or a leak from the bleeder/hose connection. But if the wheel is covered in fluid, and air was getting in, that would cause the bubbles in the reservoir and low fluid level. Could also be a fouled piston seal, requiring overhaul or a new caliper. But I'd be taking the wheel off, cleaning it up, and taking a good look first