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anotherrick



Member Since: 02 Feb 2024
Location: Lancashire
Posts: 36
 1997 Defender 110 300 Tdi CSW Rioja Red
Brake issues
This morning on my way to work a car pulled out in front of me causing me to do an "emergency stop"
Anyway no collision and a few hand gestures later we went our separate ways. However my brake pedal is very soft and barely stops the car. Got me to work and had a quick look underneath and all four corners who apparently leaks, brake fluid at level in reservoir.
Anybody any ideas. I still need to get home haha.
Car is a 1995 300tdi 110
Thanks.
Post #1078001 21st Oct 2025 11:44am
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Johan_B



Member Since: 20 Sep 2024
Location: Gothenburg
Posts: 161
Sweden 2007 Defender 110 Puma 2.4 CSW Tonga Green
If the piston seals are old and worn I guess it is possible that your emergency brake caused them to give up. I had it happen on one caliper this winter, also in an emergency brake.
Either new calipers or rebuild the ones you have. I got new calipers since I didn't have the skills/tools/time to rebuild them.
If your pedal is soft and you don't have stopping power you should not drive it until sorted.
Post #1078003 21st Oct 2025 12:13pm
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TexasRover



Member Since: 24 Nov 2022
Location: Paris
Posts: 1362
France 2002 Defender 110 Td5 DCPU Chawton White
As one gets older and have been exposed to more and more older vehicles, some in longish ownership, you realise that some things keep popping up as needing replacement over time. Typically and convently these are the things that stay longest available for older cars. Brake calipers are right up there.

Rebuilding very doable and fun, but straight out replacements are cheap, readily available and more convenient if you are short of dry workspace and time.

For all four a rebuild might justify the effort as there will be saving to be had.
Post #1078014 21st Oct 2025 1:34pm
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I Like Old Skool



Member Since: 23 Feb 2015
Location: Manchester
Posts: 882
United Kingdom 1994 Defender 110 300 Tdi ST Coniston Green
Highly unlikely to have popped all 4 calipers at once, better chance of winning the lottery. I suspect any dampness you are seeing at the wheels is probably existing axle oil leaks from failing hub seals, especially as you say the brake fluid reservoir is still at level.
Might be a Flexi hose that is ballooning, need a second person to press the pedal while you inspect for this. Also, does the pedal sink if you keep your foot on it (hence, a leak or passing seal in master cylinder). Could also be the brake servo has cracked so you are not getting the vacuum assistance you are used to.

If you are unsure what you are doing/looking for then brake repairs are one thing I always suggest are left to an expert. No room for error or learning on brake repairs and the consequences of getting it wrong can be much, much worse than leaving you stranded at the road side.
Post #1078026 21st Oct 2025 5:21pm
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