I have a 2001 1.8 Audi A4. Recently my brake light started flashing and I thought it's not serious and I'd just buy more brake fluid because the reservoir was low. Yesterday I noticed mid-drive that the brake pedal sinks to the floor and significant braking power was lost.
I went and filled the brake fluid reservoir and realized that something leaked from under the car. I don't know if this is brake fluid because the fluid in the reservoir was not lost. The leaking stopped in a few hours.
The pedal still sinks, though it does brake somewhat when it is fully depressed to the floor. The fluid reservoir is still full from my refill; it has not leaked out. I have no idea what this problem might be...
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Yes, You have a brake fluid leak.
Please, don't drive that vehicle, especially if you are relying on the parking brake to stop the car.
Track the source of the leak, removing the wheels as necessary.
It is most common for the leak to originate at the rubber hoses between the brake calipers and the metal service brake line, and those are visible by removing the wheels.
It is common for the metal lines to deteriorate in areas in the north/northeast where salt is used on the road. If there is rust on your car, the metal brake lines may be the cause.
That being said, you should check the master cylinder reservoir as well,since the little rubber grommet that seals the reservoir to the master cylinder is known to leak.
It sounds like you have a substantial leak. please be careful, and know that the parking brake only holds the rear wheels.
