Spongy Brakes & Low Fluid Signal Urgent Service Need

I experienced identical symptoms with my 2012 VW Golf GTI, and this required immediate attention. The spongy brake pedal combined with low brake fluid strongly indicates a brake system issue that could be dangerous. My brake system diagnosis revealed air in the brake lines and worn brake pads. The master cylinder was also showing signs of internal seal wear, causing the brake fluid to drop gradually. The complete repair included a brake fluid replacement, bleeding the brake system, and installing new brake pads. This isnt a problem you should postpone. A soft brake pedal means reduced stopping power and could lead to complete brake failure. The symptoms you describe are classic warning signs of compromised brake system integrity. The service should include: Complete brake fluid flush and replacement, Brake line inspection for leaks, Master cylinder function test, Brake pad thickness measurement, Caliper inspection, Brake line bleeding procedure For reference, my repair needed two visits to properly diagnose and fix all issues. The master cylinder replacement was the most serious component, but catching it early prevented more extensive damage to other brake system parts.

Thanks for sharing those details about your Golf GTI brake repairs. My Scirocco had similar brake pedal issues last month and I finally got it fixed. The warning signs you mentioned match exactly what I experienced. Did you remember roughly how much you paid for the complete brake system repair? Im especially curious about the master cylinder cost since mine also needed replacement, along with a full brake fluid flush. Would be helpful to compare prices. Also wondering if youve noticed any other brake-related problems since getting those repairs done? My brake pedal feels much firmer now, but I keep watching for any changes just to be safe.

After my last post, I can confirm the brake repairs solved all issues with my Golf GTI. The total cost was 480€ for fixing the worn brakes, which included replacing the master cylinder and doing a complete hydraulic brake system service. The brake fluid level low warning disappeared right after the repair. The brake pedal has remained firm and responsive for the past year, with no signs of the previous spongy feeling. The mechanic did a thorough job bleeding the brake lines and replacing all necessary components. Its important to maintain proper brake fluid levels to prevent air from entering the hydraulic system again. Regular brake inspections since then have shown everything working exactly as it should. No more brake fluid loss or soft pedal feel, which confirms the master cylinder replacement was the right call. Its been a worthwhile investment for safety and peace of mind.

After postponing the repair for a few days, I finally took my Scirocco to a different mechanic who came highly recommended. The brake pedal had gotten even spongier, making me really nervous about driving. The inspection revealed exactly what you described, air in the hydraulic brakes and a failing master cylinder. The total repair came to 520€, which included a complete brake fluid replacement, new master cylinder, and system bleeding. The mechanic found some minor wear on the brake pads but said they still had good life left. The repair took about 4 hours total and the brake pedal immediately felt firm again. Its been 2 weeks now and the brakes feel consistently solid. No more warning light or spongy feeling. Really glad I got it fixed before something worse happened. Next time I notice any brake issues, I wont wait to get them checked. Having properly working brakes is worth every cent spent on repairs.