Volkswagen: 1983 Mexi-Beetle brakes, high pitch, brake job

Question
Hello,
I am experiencing brake trouble in my Beetle than came on rather quickly over about 2 months.  The brake pedal goes all the way to the floor and today when I backed him up I could hardly stop at all.  I was only testing him this morning to see if things were the same, as of course I have not been driving him, they are apparently much
worse.  The pads I know need to be replaced as I can hear a slight "shhhh" sound when I brake.  I just do not know enough about bugs to know what is causeing this isssue.  Any help would be greatly apprciated!  Thanks...

Answer
It may be as simple as your brake fluid is low, you need a brake job, or both.
* If the fluid is just too low, filling it up will not fix it completely, because it is likely there is air in the brake lines now, which is bad and makes brakes feel "spongy".  They will have to be "bled", normally a job for a mechanic, although a savvy owner can DIY.
* If the brake shoes/pads are low, this generally causes a "squeal" or "grind" when pressing the pedal.  Also the brake pedal will have too much "play", another words you will have to press it too far before it works.  If there is a grinding noise rather than just a high pitch squeal, it is likely the drums/rotors are damaged(the part the brakes press against), which will have to be repaired or replaced.

Either way, it's a job for a brake mechanic unless you have the tools, expertise and will to DIY.