Low Brake Fluid & Spongy Pedal Signals VW Braking Issues

I had a similar issue with my 2003 VW Touran diesel last year. With some experience working on brakes, I recognized these classic symptoms of brake system problems right away. The spongy brake pedal combined with low brake fluid usually indicates a leak somewhere in the hydraulic brake system. In my case, the brake lines had corroded and were slowly leaking. The workshop did a complete inspection of the brake system and found multiple issues: Corroded brake lines needed replacement, Complete brake fluid replacement was necessary, Master cylinder seals were worn, Brake calipers needed servicing Total repair cost was 480€, which included parts and labor. The investment was worth it since brakes are critical for safety. Before suggesting specific solutions for your Sharan, it would help to know: When was the last brake fluid replacement done? Are there any visible fluid spots under the car? Does the brake pedal slowly sink to the floor when holding it down? Have you noticed any grinding or squealing sounds when braking? This information would help determine if you are facing similar issues with your brake lines or if there might be other problems with the hydraulic brake system.

Thanks for the detailed insights. My last service was 6 months ago at 82000km. The brake pedal does slowly sink when held down, and I have noticed small fluid spots under the car after overnight parking. No unusual sounds when braking though. The warning light for brake fluid came on yesterday during driving, which combined with the spongy pedal feel makes me seriously concerned about the brake system safety. Think I will need to get those brake lines checked professionally since it looks similar to your brake fluid leak issue. My mileage is now at 83682km, so perhaps the original brake lines are reaching their end of life. Rather have it fixed properly than risk brake failure.

Thanks for providing those details, those symptoms match exactly what I experienced before getting my Touran repaired. The sinking brake pedal combined with visible fluid spots is a clear sign of a brake system leak, just like my situation. The 82000km on your Sharan is similar to when my brake lines failed. When the workshop did the brake inspection on my car, they explained that brake line corrosion is common around this mileage on these VW models, especially if the car has been exposed to road salt. Since your brake warning light is now active and you have confirmed fluid loss, I strongly recommend getting the car checked immediately. When my master cylinder started failing, the symptoms progressed quickly. The complete brake system overhaul I got included: Full brake line replacement, New brake fluid flush, Master cylinder rebuild, Brake caliper service The total came to 480€, but prices can vary based on parts availability and labor rates. Making sure the entire brake system is properly inspected now could prevent more expensive repairs later. Given the similar age and symptoms between our cars, I bet you will find comparable issues with the brake lines. Better to address it now while the car is still safe to drive.

Thank you for sharing those repair details. After seeing such similar symptoms between our cars, I am not taking any chances. I called my regular workshop and they can check the brake system tomorrow morning. Given the age of my Sharan and the visible brake fluid leaks, I am expecting they will find issues with the brake lines like you did. The sinking brake pedal really worries me, especially since the brake warning light is now on. Taking the car off the road until it is properly fixed seems like the safest option. Based on your repair cost of 480€ for the full brake system overhaul, I can at least budget for what this might cost. Even if it ends up being more expensive, having properly working hydraulic brakes is worth the investment. Will update once I know what they find wrong with the master cylinder and brake lines.