Loss of power when Braking and Leaking brake fluid

[Aggy]

Been driving nissan mistral and noticed a couple of days ago that brakes were grinding when I braked.
I assume this meant I needed new pads but haven't had time off work to go and get some (planned job for the weekend.)
Anyway got up this morning and noticed dirty brown liquid on the drive, puzzled me but as usual on way to work.
My wife has been out in the car and says she's had loss of power in the brakes and she's had to pump them to work.
Looked at brake fluid which is well below minimum.
What are the chances of it being to do with the brake pads or could it be a more costly problem like caliper or master cyclinder.
Any advice much appreciated.
Aggy.

 

[(RIP) PLANK]

sounds like more than just pads, maybe a caliper or a cylinder, i wouldn't drive it around until you have sorted it out if I were you!

 

[Aggy]

Don't worry not driving it!
That was my worry caliper or cylinder. Just what I need before christmas!
Thanks for your reply.
Will know more when i've got wheel off!

 

[makeitfit]

It could be that you or her ladyship have got the remains of the pads/metal to metal and got things proper hotthus melting the piston seals:augie
Calipers are easy though so dont panic, plenty more up the scrappy

 

[Terranosaurus]

Calipers are easy though so dont panic, plenty more up the scrappy

Don't want to be a doom monger but IIRC Mistral calipers are different to Terrano, not sure if you can retro fit T2 ones but if you do you need to do both. Cross reference the brake pads to check.

 

[(RIP) PLANK]

Don't want to be a doom monger but IIRC Mistral calipers are different to Terrano, not sure if you can retro fit T2 ones but if you do you need to do both. Cross reference the brake pads to check.

a very good point, though i hate to admit it :thumbs lets hope its a wheel cylinder, but when i replaced one on my last t2 i did both i think its best to do brake stuff in pairs