
Brake fluid, also known as hydraulic brake fluid, is a functional liquid that has a shelf life just like engine oil. If the master cylinder or wheel cylinders experience oil leakage, it will lead to a drop in master cylinder pressure and reduced braking force.

As a car enthusiast who frequently does my own repairs, I know that insufficient brake vacuum in the Peugeot 408 is a fairly common issue. It could be caused by aging or leaking vacuum hoses, or a faulty vacuum pump, resulting in a stiff brake pedal and potential danger in emergencies. When I encountered this problem, I started with simple self-checks: turn off the engine, disconnect the vacuum hose to listen for air leaks or check for cracks on the hose. If there's a leak, simply replacing the hose is an affordable and practical solution. But if the pump is faulty, you'll need to replace it—parts for the 408 can be a bit pricey, though I recommend getting a proper diagnosis first to avoid unnecessary expenses. For prevention, regular maintenance and inspection of the vacuum system can help prevent aging issues. Once, I misdiagnosed the problem and wasted time, so now I’ve learned to use a vacuum gauge for safer testing. In short, since this issue affects braking performance, it must be addressed quickly—don’t delay.

As a breadwinner, I believe safety comes first when driving. The insufficient brake vacuum in the Peugeot 408 is indeed concerning, as hardened brakes can easily lead to accidents. The main solutions are to check whether the vacuum lines are leaking or broken, and whether the vacuum pump has failed. My advice is not to tough it out yourself—take it to a professional auto repair shop for diagnosis. Usually, opening up the chassis can pinpoint the issue. Replacing a new pipe might solve the problem quickly and affordably. For prevention, I always remind technicians during routine maintenance to inspect vacuum components to avoid potential leaks. My neighbor’s car was fixed this way last time, costing just a few hundred bucks. Remember, if you feel any brake abnormalities while driving, pull over immediately, turn on the hazard lights, and wait for assistance. When it comes to safety, money is the least concern.

I'm quite familiar with the 408 model. For insufficient brake vacuum, the straightforward solutions are: check the vacuum lines, replace the pump or related components. If you're doing it yourself, inspect for cracked tubes or loose connections by listening for unusual noises, and perform simple repairs if needed. If that doesn't work, take it to a professional shop to ensure reliability and avoid potential hazards. Regular maintenance checks can help prevent issues.


