Hi,

I bought a car in 2009. All was dandy. The entire life of the car (starting about 2 years in) the brake fluid leaked. Had it looked at twice, could find no leak in the 7 years I've owned it. Discovered recently (my mom drove the car and was alarmed how squishy the brakes were) that my entire ABS brake system and master cylinder has to be replaced. Work including labor and taxes totals about $1507. This would put me in small claims court.

The mechanic is also my uncle. The work is documented, as I took it to where he works at Pep Boys. When I asked him if this was something preventable, and he said "No. This has been there since you bought the car". He also said that the fact would be hard to prove. This issue didn't come to light until I really pushed him to look for a leak because of how bad my brakes were performing. I had the brakes and pads replaced months ago, so it wasn't that.

Would suing the dealer in small claims court be pointless? I bought the car new. I'm pretty much anticipating that it isn't going to be a successful venture, but I just wanted to know if anyone thinks I would have a chance at winning. I know you can't tell what a judge will say, but any advice is appreciated.