Checking the brake system (Focus Turnier 1)

To be able to clearly identify possible leak locations, the car must be dry underneath. Therefore, choose a day that is not rainy for the check.

Check all hose connections and connecting tubes, as well as the brake calipers. Dark spots and damp spots are a sure sign of leaking brake fluid.

Check the brake hoses. They should not be frayed, damp or swollen. In these cases: install new hoses immediately.

Clean the outside of the brake lines with a cold cleaner. The lines are coated with a protective synthetic layer to protect against rust, so never use screwdrivers, sandpaper or a wire brush to clean them. If the protective layer is damaged, apply a thin layer of anti-corrosion primer to the area. If the corrosion pits, deformation or stone impact marks are severe, you should replace the damaged parts immediately.

Do all the bleeder valves on the brake calipers have protective caps? If not, install them now.

Carry out a (temporary) brake pressure check regularly in spring and autumn. To do this, hold the brake pedal fully depressed for one minute, as you would do when braking fully. The pedal should not touch the floor. Otherwise, the system is leaky (faulty seals in the master cylinder or in the brake calipers). Then also inspect the damp areas. A precise check with pressure indicators is work for a workshop only.