Hi all,

I noticed the rear brake fluid level has reached "lower".  Soon, I need to replace the brake pads and I wondered: does the level go down in accordance with the wearing of brake pads, or does it suggest I have a leak?  In other words, will the level go back up to original and safe levels with new brake pads?

Just getting my shopping list together for the next service, so appreciate your opinions.

Cheers!
E.

It will go back up a bit with the new pads, because there will be less fluid sitting in the caliper.

you can easily check the rear brake hydraulic system for leaks....juuust to make sure.  should be fairly easy to spot if you do have one

The level drops as the pistons extend to push the brake pads further as the pads wear.

While the level will go back up with new pads, unless you are burning through pads at a high rate, you should probably be replacing the fluid at the same time anyway - at least every 2 years, yearly is probably better. The stuff attracts water and  degrades. If it's not essentially clear, replace it from a new sealed container, and flush all the old junk out of the system.

Thanks for the replies!  It's fractionally above LOWER, and the fluid is still clear.  I think it will go back into the normal zone with new pads.  Hope this pad replacement is easy.....

Quote from: mullan on October 17, 2009, 01:45:07 AM
Thanks for the replies!  It's fractionally above LOWER, and the fluid is still clear.  I think it will go back into the normal zone with new pads.  Hope this pad replacement is easy.....

it's very easy. take a look at the caliper cover (plastic) and the pins that hold the pads in place. just don't pump the pedal while youre pads are out

really good idea to flush all that old fluid out while you're down there.