S60 hybrid spongy brakes

Spongy brakes on a Volvo S60? Sounds familiar! I had a similar issue with my S60, though it's not a hybrid. It felt like I was trying to stop a runaway train with marshmallows. Have you checked your brake pads lately? When they get worn down, the fluid has to travel further, which can definitely cause that weird pedal feel.

Yeah, that marshmallow analogy is spot on! I haven't had a proper look at the pads yet, been meaning to. But if the pads are worn, would that really cause the fluid level to drop noticeably? I thought it was a sealed system, more or less.

Think of it like this: as the pads wear, the caliper pistons have to extend further to maintain contact with the rotors. That extra extension requires more fluid in the system. While it's 'sealed,' the reservoir is there to compensate for wear. Time for a brake inspection, methinks. If those pads are thin, replace them, bleed the system, and you should be golden. If the light is still on, you may have a leak somewhere in the system. Better get to the workshop!

Thanks a bunch! I took your advice and got it checked out. Turns out the brake pads were indeed worn, and that was causing the low fluid. New pads and a fluid replacement later, and she's stopping like a champ again. Cost me around 480€, but peace of mind is worth it. Cheers!