What Causes Brake Caliper Oil Leakage?
2 Answers
Brake caliper oil leakage can be caused by ruptured rubber cups, issues with the connection gap between the piston and the caliper inner wall, or poor-quality brake fluid. Below are detailed explanations: Ruptured Rubber Cups: If the rubber cups inside the brake caliper are ruptured, it can lead to oil leakage, though the issue is generally not severe. Issues with the Connection Gap Between the Piston and Caliper Inner Wall: Problems with the connection gap between the piston and the caliper inner wall (such as unevenness or abnormal wear caused by foreign objects) can result in brake caliper oil leakage. Poor-Quality Brake Fluid: If the brake fluid is of poor quality, its high water content may prevent the original sealing components from effectively sealing, leading to oil leakage.
I've encountered brake caliper oil leaks multiple times, and the main reasons boil down to seal aging or damage. The oil seals and O-rings in the brake system can dry out, crack, or deform over time, causing oil leakage. Additionally, caliper corrosion is a common factor, especially in humid areas where rust on metal components can lead to small cracks and oil leaks. Improper installation can also cause issues, such as misalignment during caliper replacement or loose screws. Moreover, if the caliper gets damaged by road debris or undercarriage scrapes, the risk of oil leakage increases significantly. I remember one time when my car was leaking oil, I noticed the brake pedal felt spongy, and upon checking, the fluid level had indeed dropped. Never delay addressing this issue – if the oil runs out, the brakes might fail, which is extremely dangerous at high speeds. I recommend driving to a professional repair shop immediately for inspection and repairs. During regular maintenance, pay extra attention to fluid changes and seal inspections. Changing the brake fluid every two years can prevent many problems.
