Cadillac Repair: Brake Fluid Leak (Anti-Lock Brake System), cadillac eldorado, fluid leak

Question
QUESTION: I Have a 1988 Cadillac Eldorado and today I was driving and had to come to a sudden stop. I had brake fluid in the car when I was driving before the sudden stop. Just before I was about to turn in my driveway, I could hardly stop with the brakes. I checked the brake fluid and the container was empty, so I replaced the brake fluid (Dot3) and it leaked right out.  Why is this?  Could you tell me what you think is exactly wrong with my car and how costly it would be to fix it.

ANSWER: Marie,
Both sides of the reservoir are empty?

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QUESTION: If Both sides of the reservoir are empty, that would cause a major brake fluid leak? I slammed on the brakes very hard and it took awhile to stop. Could the brake line be broken or the master cylinder also be affected? The brake fluid completely drained by the driver's rear tire and some on the rear right side.  I noticed this after I first asked you the question. My brother is having the car towed tonight to be fixed at the station where he gets his work done, so I would appreciate if you could give me some more advice, so I could tell the mechanic working on my brother's car.  Thank You so much in advance for all your help.

Answer
Marie,
Later model Sevilles, Eldorados, and Devilles had a common problem whereby they chaffed through a section of the brake line near the L/R wheel well. Your car may be suffering from the same issue. You should only be loosing fluid from one side the reservoir. Have the leak fixed and you should be okay. If it's the line as I'm suggesting, it's a simple, inexpensive repair. Don't mess around with the brakes, get a pro to look at it ASAP.