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I recently submitted my 1995 Familia for a WoF inspection and was told that the brakes needed attention. Frayed front hoses and possible failed equaliser valve.

Eventually the front hoses and the rear brake cylinders were replaced. On collecting the car I was told that one rear cylinder had been leaking.

I am 72 yrs old and my memory is a bit slower these days. I eventually remembered that the rear cylinders had been replaced exactly two years ago to attain a warrant.

Two years and under 15,000 km's, is this unusual?

Bob

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 28 November 2009

While it is unusual for the cylinder to require replacement again, it is possible.

It is likely the cause of the WoF rejection was due to an imbalance of the rear brakes which may have simply required a cleaning of the brakes and a readjustment.

The mechanic may have noticed the leakage from the wheel cylinder when the brake drums were removed and replacement was precautionary. If left unattended the leakage would only get worse and contamination of the brake linings would lead to a more expensive future repair bill.

Hopefully the repairer carried out the work for all the right reasons.

Often brakes cylinders last longer when the brakes are in constant use. Hopefully the condition of the brake fluid was also checked, as brake fluid absorbs moisture which can contribute to premature wheel cylinder failure.