Q: What causes brake fluid leaks?

有许多因素可以导致制动液泄漏。

Let’s begin at the start of the system, with the master cylinder. This is a sealed unit with a reservoir to hold the brake fluid needed to operate the system. It may include a sensor that will illuminate a light to indicate a low level. The actual operational part of the master cylinder contains internal pistons with seals to build the pressure needed to squeeze the brake pads or shoes to stop your car. The brake booster rod pushes on these pistons, which have an external rear seal to keep the fluid trapped inside the cylinder. When the brake pedal is depressed, the pistons push the fluid and transfer the pressure through the brake system. Over time these seals can become worn and leak either internally or externally. A sign of an external leak is an area of missing or peeling paint on the brake booster just below the rear of the master cylinder. If the刹车垫磨损过大，卡尺活塞有可能在其孔中过度延伸，并弹出密封件，从而导致液体泄漏经过活塞。柔性橡胶制动线会干燥，腐烂和破裂，或因滥用，道路碎屑或事故而受到损坏。金属制动线可以生锈，尤其是在冬季天气条件下使用过多盐的严重条件的情况。如果车辆靠近盐水源，随着时间的推移，它可能对线路产生相同的影响。车轮缸中的密封件也会随着时间的流逝而磨损，并可能将液体泄漏到制动鞋上。即使是松动的制动器螺钉也会导致泄漏。

如果您注意到诸如low brake pedalor a pedal that sinks down as you sit at a light with pressure applied to the brake pedal. No problem with your vehicle should be ignored, but certainly anything to do with the brakes, tires, steering, or fuel system leaks should be addressed as soon as you feel them occur. As with all concerns, regular maintenance checks will help to keep potential problems in check.