QuestionThe brakes on my 1975 MGB do not work. The fluid level was almost empty. I cleaned the reservoir and added new fluid but still no brakes. What could be the cause? Is the fluid not reaching the master cylinder?
AnswerHi Kevin. If you have lost a lot of brake fluid, then either it is leaking or it is being consumed by the engine.
Firstly, check the brakes visually, especially the inside face of the rear brakes which can be inspected by looking under the back of the car. The brake cylinders inside the rear drums often fail, and they usually dribble brake fluid all over the brake shoes. If this has happened you need a new rear cylinder AND a new set of brake shoes.
Another possibility is the flexible brake hoses. There is one attached to each front brake, and a third one near the centre of the rear axle.
It could also be a corroded metal brake pipe, or a failed seal inside the master cylinder.
If there is no sign of a leak anywhere, then the brake servo may have failed. When this happens the brake fluid is sucked into the engine and burnt. There would be clouds of white smoke from the exhaust tailpipe.
Remember, brakes are safety-critical items. If you don't feel confident in what you are doing, please take the car to an expert.
