benschmitz94
V40 Low Brake Fluid
Summary of the thread
A 2013 Volvo V40 owner noticed low brake fluid levels and unusual brake pedal feedback. Despite finding no visible leaks, the issue was identified as worn brake pads, which can cause the brake fluid level to drop as the caliper pistons extend further to compensate for the pad wear. The solution involved replacing the worn brake pads and replenishing the brake fluid, resolving the problem.
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4 comment(s)
benschmitz94 (community.author)
That's interesting. I didn't realize the pads could cause that. How would worn pads affect the brake fluid level exactly?
alexandermeier5
Basically, the system for hydraulic brakes is sealed. As your brake pads wear down from pressing the pedal, the pistons have to move more to compensate. So the space the piston occupies in the caliper cylinder has to be filled with fluid. If it gets too low, the warning light will turn on and you'll have very spongy brakes. I'd get it checked out by a professional ASAP.
benschmitz94 (community.author)
Thanks for the advice! I took it to a shop, and you were right – worn brakes. Got them replaced, along with a fluid replacement and it cost 480€. Everything's back to normal now.
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VOLVO
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V40
alexandermeier5
Hey, I have a V40 too, and I had something similar happen. Low brake fluid can be a sign your brake pads are wearing down. As the pads wear, the pistons in the calipers have to extend further, which uses more fluid from the reservoir, making the level drop. Have you checked your pads lately?