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marysteel80

MR2 Brake Fluid Loss

I'm facing a head-scratcher with my 2005 Toyota MR2, gasoline engine. The brake fluid level keeps dropping, and I'm getting some seriously strange feedback from the brake pedal. I've checked around the master cylinder for leaks, and the lines seem okay at a glance, but honestly, I'm stumped. Any ideas before I start tearing things apart?

Summary of the thread

The 2005 Toyota MR2 is experiencing brake fluid loss and unusual brake pedal feedback. Initial checks around the master cylinder and brake lines showed no obvious leaks. Suggestions included inspecting the flexible brake hoses and considering the impact of worn brake pads, which can increase fluid demand as caliper pistons extend. A professional inspection revealed nearly worn-out brake pads and a small leak at a rear caliper, leading to the replacement of pads, rotors, and a caliper, resolving the issue.

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4 comment(s)

aaron_fire1

I had a similar issue with my old Saab 9-3, although the symptoms weren't exactly the same. It turned out to be a slow leak in one of the rear brake lines that was only noticeable under pressure. The fluid loss was so gradual that it was hard to spot initially. Were you able to check the flexible brake hoses? Also, how many kilometers are on your MR2's brake pads?

marysteel80 (community.author)

Good call on the flexible hoses. I'll give those a closer look, especially in the rear. The car has 109915 km on it. I'm not sure when the pads were last changed, so they might be worn. Could worn brake pads really cause that much fluid loss and the weird pedal feel?

aaron_fire1

Worn brake pads won't directly cause fluid loss, but as the pads wear down, the pistons in the calipers extend further to compensate. This increases the volume of the brake system and thus requires more fluid from the reservoir. If the reservoir was already low, or if there's a small leak somewhere, the increased demand could drop the level significantly. Given the age and mileage, a comprehensive brake inspection is advisable. Going to a professional would be a good call.

marysteel80 (community.author)

Thanks a ton for the insight! I checked the pads, and they were nearly gone. Took it to the shop, and they confirmed that plus a small leak at one of the rear calipers. New pads, rotors, and a caliper replacement set me back 480€, but the brakes feel great again. Really appreciate the help!

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TOYOTA

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MR2