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Mysterious Brake Failure Light: 1987 Volvo 245 GL 200

posted by  onlyVolvo on  Mon Dec 31 01:00 CST 2012
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last visit: Thu Jun 26 20:57 CST 2014
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I own a 1987 Volvo 245 GL. Periodically, a red 'Brake Failure' light illuminates on the dashboard. I checked all brake pads, all hydraulic brake calipers, master cylinder, and hydraulic brake fluid reservoir. Everything is in order and the brakes appear to work fine. I have been unable to determine why the 'Brake Failure' light goes on sporadically. I would greatly appreciate any advice. Are there any sesnors that perhaps detect a spongy master cylinder or other brake component? The brake pedal periodically travels too far when the brakes are applied... pumping the pedal works fine and there are no fluid leaks.

Thanks in advance for any ideas!

OnlyVolvo








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    Mysterious Brake Failure Light: 1987 Volvo 245 GL 200

    posted by  NewMexico240 on  Mon Dec 31 23:47 CST 2012
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    last visit: Fri Oct 24 11:52 CST 2014
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    My brake failure light was periodically lighting up and
    my brake pedal would sometimes go down further than usual.
    I replaced my master cylinder ($20.00 part at Autozone)
    and the problems went away.

    Joseph in New Mexico








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    Mysterious Brake Failure Light: 1987 Volvo 245 GL 200

    posted by  Onkel Udo II on  Mon Dec 31 02:42 CST 2012
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    The sensor is in the octapus and normally senses an imbalance in brake pressure between the two circuits. That being said, once it goes on, it normally stays on in my experience.

    Check the wiring first as the intermittent nature points to that. If not, do a search on the site as Art B has some wonderful pictures of the issue with the switch becoming corroded.








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      Mysterious Brake Failure Light: 1987 Volvo 245 GL 200

      posted by  joekidd on  Mon Dec 31 21:26 CST 2012
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      last visit: Fri Oct 24 10:54 CST 2014
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      Could be the switch in the octopus has gone bad. Just unplug and keep an eye on things like I did with my 87 with the same issue.







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