Q7 Brake Pedal Problem Points to Low Fluid Level

Having dealt with similar brake pedal issues on my 2019 Audi Q5, I can share my experience. As someone with moderate car repair experience, these symptoms immediately pointed to potential hydraulic brake system problems. The spongy brake pedal and low brake fluid were warning signs I couldnt ignore. After inspection, my workshop found worn brake lines and a leaking master cylinder, which explained the fluid loss and poor pedal response. The complete repair included: Brake fluid replacement, New brake lines installation, Master cylinder replacement, System bleeding and testing Total cost was 480 Euro and took about 6 hours to complete. The brake pedal feel returned to normal immediately after repairs. Before offering more specific advice, could you share: Current mileage on your Q7? When was your last brake fluid replacement? Are you noticing any fluid spots under the car? Does the spongy feeling occur when the engine is cold or warm? The hydraulic brake system is crucial for safety, so its best to have it checked soon. A proper diagnosis will reveal if your issue matches what I experienced or if its something different.

At 173531KM and having my last service just 3 months ago, I want to add that I have noticed small fluid spots under the car recently. The spongy brake pedal feeling is most noticeable when the engine is warm, particularly after driving for about 20 minutes. The warning light hasnt come on yet, but the master cylinder reservoir level keeps dropping gradually. Going to get this checked right away given the safety implications of any brake system issues.

Thanks for those additional details. This sounds exactly like what I encountered with my Q5, the symptoms match perfectly, especially the fluid spots and warm-engine pedal behavior. The gradual brake fluid loss combined with spots under the car strongly suggests a leak in the hydraulic brake system. Its good your warning light hasnt triggered yet, but the dropping fluid level is a clear sign to act quickly. In my case, the leak got worse over time, and waiting would have only increased repair costs. Your high mileage (compared to when my issue occurred at 150000KM) makes hydraulic brake component wear more likely. During my brake inspection, they identified that heat cycling had accelerated the deterioration of seals and lines. The fact that youre seeing more issues when warm matches this pattern. Based on my repair experience, you should prepare for: Complete brake fluid replacement, Possible brake line replacement, Master cylinder inspection and likely replacement, Full system bleeding The repair cost might be similar to what I paid (480 Euro), but prices vary. The good news is that proper repairs fully resolved the issue, and my brakes have worked perfectly since. Get it checked immediately, dont wait for the warning light. With brake system issues, prevention is always cheaper than dealing with a complete failure.

Based on your feedback and confirmation of fluid spots and warm-engine brake pedal issues, I will schedule a workshop visit this week. The explanation about heat cycling affecting the brake system components makes sense given my mileage. Good to know your repair costs were around 480 Euro, helps set expectations. My priority now is getting a proper brake inspection done before the master cylinder loses more fluid or the hydraulic brake system develops bigger problems. Since the symptoms match your experience so closely, especially the fluid spots and pedal behavior when warm, I feel more confident about what to discuss with the mechanic. Will make sure they check all the components you mentioned, brake lines, seals, and the master cylinder. Really appreciate the detailed insight from your similar experience. Better to address this now than risk any brake system failure. Will report back after the workshop visit with what they find.