Mk4 Brake Fluid Level Not Visible

[evergoodstudios]

I am finding it difficult to see the brake fluid level on my .:R (on the side of the reservoir where it says min/max).

I have topped up with about 200ml of DOT4 fluid. But I still can't see the level. There is fluid in the reservior because I can see it when looking into the lid/opening. I've tried rocking the car to see the fluid moving - that used to work on my other cars. I am a little worried that it is not up to the level and don't want to overfill. I also cannot find any leaks? Very wierd...

I haven't had a warning light and the brakes feel absolutely fine. Tried slamming on and abs kicks in ok too.

Has anyone else had this prob/mystery?

[Mook]

Not had the problem, but it's crucial your fluid level is correct. Because it's clear, it's very hard to see.

An easy way to check the actual level is to take a clean piece of card, preferably dark, and lower it gently into the reservoir. You'll see when it touches the fluid as it'll start to leach up the card. Mark a small line on the card at the top of the filler neck. Carefully take out the card and wipe it clean with some paper towel. Next, hold the card against the outside of the reservoir, with the line you just made in line with the top of the filler neck. You can then cross-compare the bottom of the card with the fill lines on the reservoir.

If you've any thoughts there may be any kind of leak in your brake system, get it checked immediately (and I mean tomorrow!) by a VW specialist or your VW garage. Your brakes will continue to work normally until the fluid is out, after which your brake pedal will go to the floor, probably when you least expect it.

Sounds dramatic, but you need to be aware!

HTH

[evergoodstudios]

Thanks Mook for the reply...

That is a cunning way to check the level, I will try it ASAP. I am under no illusion that checking the fluid level and for leaks is very important, & am very mechanically minded. But what has confused me slightly is the fact that when I topped up the fluid, it initially filled up but then the level dropped, back to what it was before I started topping up.

Are there two chambers in the reservoir?

I have been keeping an eye on it for about two weeks now. The fluid doesn't seem to have dropped when checking the level through the filler neck. Its just almost impossible to view from the side.

I have even been checking my driveway, everywhere I have parked for any sign of fluid. Could it leak anywhere else? The clutch for example?

Sorry to be a pain, I will try to get to a garage, but would like to tackle this myself. I have a serious lack of trust with garages and do most of the work on my cars myself, with the help of service manuals and tyresmoke of course!

[evergoodstudios]

Well, after the paper/card level method I am pleased to announce that the level is upto the max. I wll keep an eye on it, like everyday.

Thanks again. Dont know why I didn't think of doing it that way before

[Mook]

Lateral thinking, Iain...