Soft brake pedal, wetness inside a wheel

This page is for information only; a mechanic makes the diagnosis.

If the brake pedal feels soft and sinks towards the floor, or there is oily wetness on the inside of a wheel, brake fluid may be leaking. The leak can come from a brake hose, a caliper, a wheel cylinder on drum brakes or the brake master cylinder.

A car losing brake fluid may not stop. Do not drive it; call a mechanic or have it transported.

Tap a part to see listings of that type.

The same symptom can have different causes; have a mechanic look at the vehicle before buying a part and, if possible, get the part code from them.

Frequently asked questions

What are the likely causes of "Soft brake pedal, wetness inside a wheel"?

If the brake pedal feels soft and sinks towards the floor, or there is oily wetness on the inside of a wheel, brake fluid may be leaking. The leak can come from a brake hose, a caliper, a wheel cylinder on drum brakes or the brake master cylinder.

Can I drive with "Soft brake pedal, wetness inside a wheel"?

A car losing brake fluid may not stop. Do not drive it; call a mechanic or have it transported.

Which parts should be checked for "Soft brake pedal, wetness inside a wheel"?

Common causes include these parts: Brake Hose, Brake Caliper, Wheel Cylinder, Brake Master Cylinder. The mechanic who sees the vehicle decides which one to replace.