Brake Fluid Leaks: What They Mean & Why You Should Never Ignore Them
Your vehicle’s braking system is one of its most critical safety components. If you notice a brake fluid leak, soft brake pedal, or warning light on your dashboard, it’s not something to “wait and see” about — it’s something that needs immediate attention.
At Green’s Garage, we diagnose and repair brake fluid leaks — including professional fabrication of brake lines when necessary — to keep you and your family safe on the road.
What Is Brake Fluid & Why Is It Important?
Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that transfers the force from your brake pedal to the brake calipers or wheel cylinders. When you press the pedal, brake fluid creates pressure that clamps the brake pads against the rotors — slowing and stopping your vehicle.
If brake fluid leaks:
- Hydraulic pressure drops
- Braking performance decreases
- Your stopping distance increases
- Complete brake failure becomes possible
That’s why even a small leak should be addressed immediately.
Common Signs of a Brake Fluid Leak
Here are the most common warning signs:
- Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal
If your brake pedal feels soft or sinks to the floor, you may have a hydraulic leak.
Many modern vehicles will trigger a brake or ABS warning light when fluid levels drop.
Brake fluid is typically clear to light amber and has a slightly oily texture. It’s thinner than oil and won’t feel slick like engine oil.
- Burning Smell After Driving
In some cases, leaking brake fluid can drip onto hot components and cause a noticeable smell.
Where Do Brake Fluid Leaks Come From?
Brake fluid leaks can occur in several areas:
- Rusted or corroded brake lines
- Damaged rubber brake hoses
- Failing brake calipers
- Leaking wheel cylinders
- Master cylinder failure
- ABS module leaks
In South Florida’s humid climate, corrosion is especially common — particularly on steel brake lines.
Rusted or Damaged Brake Lines
Brake lines run from the master cylinder to each wheel and are responsible for carrying pressurized brake fluid throughout the system.
Over time, brake lines can:
- Rust internally or externally
- Crack due to age
- Get damaged from road debris
- Leak at fittings or connection points
When this happens, replacing sections of the line — or fabricating new ones — may be necessary.
Professional Brake Line Fabrication
In many cases, especially with older or specialty vehicles, pre-formed brake lines are not readily available. That’s where custom fabrication comes in.
At Green’s Garage, we fabricate brake lines to factory specifications using high-quality materials designed for durability and safety.
Our fabrication process includes:
- Measuring and duplicating original line routing
- Using corrosion-resistant tubing
- Proper double-flaring for secure connections
- Ensuring correct fitting sizes and thread pitch
- Pressure testing the system after installation
Custom fabrication allows us to:
- Restore vehicles when OEM lines are discontinued
- Repair only the damaged section instead of replacing full assemblies
- Ensure proper fitment and safe operation
Brake line fabrication must be done correctly — improper flaring or routing can lead to dangerous failures.
Why You Should Never Drive With a Brake Fluid Leak
Driving with a brake fluid leak can lead to:
- Sudden loss of braking power
- Complete hydraulic failure
- Increased accident risk
- Expensive secondary damage
Brake problems don’t fix themselves — they worsen over time.
What to Do If You Suspect a Leak
If you notice any signs of a brake fluid leak:
- Avoid hard driving
- Do not ignore warning lights
- Have the vehicle inspected immediately
Brake issues are safety issues.
Expert Brake Repair You Can Trust
Whether it’s a leaking caliper, failing master cylinder, or a rusted brake line that needs professional fabrication, our team has the experience and tools to properly diagnose and repair your braking system.
We service:
- Domestic vehicles
- European vehicles
- Luxury models
- Performance vehicles
Your brakes are not an area to cut corners — and we don’t.
Schedule Your Brake Inspection Today
If you suspect a brake fluid leak or your brake pedal doesn’t feel right, contact Green’s Garage today. We’ll perform a thorough inspection and provide clear, honest recommendations to keep your vehicle safe and road-ready.