VW Lupo Brake Problems: Low Fluid and Spongy Pedal

Had almost the exact same issue with my 2005 VW Polo diesel last year. With some experience working on cars, I first thought it was just low brake fluid, but the symptoms you describe match what I encountered, especially that spongy brake pedal feeling. The hydraulic brakes needed attention, and after a proper brake inspection at my regular workshop, they found worn brake components and air in the system. The fix included replacing worn brake parts and a complete brake fluid replacement. Total cost was 480€, which included labor and parts. The spongy pedal feel and flickering warning light are definitely red flags that need immediate attention. These symptoms usually point to either air in the brake lines, a failing master cylinder, or severely worn brake components. For safety reasons, would strongly advise against driving the car until getting it checked. Brake issues can escalate quickly and compromise safety. To better assist, could you share: Current mileage on your Lupo? When was the last brake fluid replacement done? Are you noticing any fluid spots under the car when parked? Does the pedal slowly sink to the floor when held down? This information would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced with my Polo.

Thanks for sharing your brake system experience. My Lupo has 80756km and had its last service 3 months ago. After parking overnight, I did notice small drops under the car. The brake pedal does sink gradually when pressed and held. The spongy brake pedal feeling seems worse after driving for about 15 minutes. The brake warning light started flickering more frequently this week, which really concerns me. Given your similar experience, I will get it checked immediately. Based on your repair costs, I will budget around 500€ for potential repairs and fluid replacement. A complete brake system inspection sounds like the safest approach rather than just addressing individual components. I appreciate the warning about continuing to drive with these symptoms.

Thanks for those extra details about your Lupo. The fluid spots under the car combined with the sinking brake pedal strongly suggest a brake fluid leak, likely from deteriorated brake lines or seals. This matches exactly what happened with my Polo before the repairs. The worsening spongy feeling after 15 minutes of driving is particularly concerning, I experienced this too, and it turned out the master cylinder was also failing. The heat from driving was making the seals expand and leak more. The total repair on my Polo included: Brake line replacement, Master cylinder rebuild, Complete brake fluid flush, New seals The flickering brake warning light in your case is definitely the same symptom I had, it indicates the system is losing pressure due to the leaks. The final repair cost for my Polo was actually closer to 550€ with all the needed parts. Since your symptoms match mine so closely, and considering the age of these VW models, I would prepare for similar repairs. The brake inspection will likely reveal multiple worn components needing attention, rather than just a simple fluid top-up.

Based on your brake system experience and seeing the fluid spots, this definitely sounds more serious than I initially thought. The 80756km on my Lupo explains why these issues are surfacing now. The sinking brake pedal and those drops under the car match your Polo symptoms exactly. With the brake warning light now flickering more frequently, I understand why a complete system overhaul might be needed rather than just addressing individual parts. I will schedule a full brake inspection first thing tomorrow. Your repair cost breakdown helps, I will budget 550€ for potential brake line replacement, master cylinder work, and a complete fluid replacement. The fact that my brake pedal feel worsens after driving 15 minutes matches your experience with heat-related seal issues. Really appreciate the detailed comparison with your Polo repairs. Having similar symptoms validated, especially the warning light and fluid leaks, gives me confidence in getting this properly fixed rather than attempting temporary solutions. Will avoid driving until the inspection is done, as these brake system issues clearly need immediate professional attention.