I am seeing a small stain on my garage floor under my 2011 Durango. Today I looked and it seems to be coming from what appears to be some sort of manifold connected to the master brake cylinder. I am wondering what this manifold is and what it is used for. See attached pictures. Can someone tell me what this part is by looking at the photos? It is the part with the brake hard lines connected to the top and a black side cover with a sticker on it.

Thanks in advance.

 

Not having a service manual makes finding this part challenging, Trying a different angle, I searched auto parts stores for 2011 Durango. Specifically brake areas. I think that I have identified the part. I believe it is a Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) assembly. I found both the multi-port aluminum block (HCU - Part Number: 68085397AB - $360) and the black plastic side cover is some type of control module (Part Number: 68139770AB - $170). It may be that the HCU comes with the control module included but this is not clear.
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What you have in the picture is the brake hydraulic contol unit also known as an ABS pump which controls your Antilock brakes and traction control. I believe it is rare for these to leak. It is possible you could have a loose brake line? How is the brake fluid level in the master cylinder?
I do see some seepage at a line/hose which I believe is your A/C system.
Just for what it's worth, the engine mounts are hydraulic type and filled with oil...which I have read can develop leaks and subsequently leave oil spots.

 

So my next question is this. Is it common for an ABS hydraulic control unit, or control module, to start leaking? if so, which part is most likely to leak; the HCU or the module?

 

The ABS hydraulic control unit was the conclusion I came to. Thanks for confirming the part. You also answered my next question which was, "is it common for this part to leak?". The brake fluid level seems OK; maybe a little low. In the past I have found that leaks can be hard to isolate. Especially for a DIY mechanic with 0 diagnostic tools except for an engine code reader. One time tracing an engine oil leak in my old Mazda, I ended up replacing an oil pan gasket (big job) and it turned out that wasn't the problem. It was the oil pressure sending unit would leak only while the engine was running (under pressure). I am not 100% sure that this ABS hydraulic control unit is the source of leak. In fact i am not even sure that the leaked fluid is brake fluid. I am pretty sure that it isn't coolant. But I will say the last time I had the vehicle serviced (last October), in addition to the main problem (broken valve spring) I had them change/flush 3 types of fluid (cooling system, transmission fluid, oil).

 

It is normal for the brake fluid to slowly drop from its level due to brake pad wear. I would think your brake fluid level would be dramatically reduced if you had a brake fluid leak. Keep an eye on it. You would also feel the brake pedal slowly creeping to the floor at a red light if you had a brake fluid leak. As well, your brake light would activate in your instrument cluster at some point. Keep an eye on your brake fluid to be safe.
A good method to determine the source of a leak is to give the contaminated or dirty area a thorough wash...using a pressure washer with care. Then closely and frequently monitor the area for signs of seepage, keeping gravity in mind. I would be suspicious of the motor mount and that air conditioning line as both do contain an oil based substance

 

Thanks for the advice. I'll keep an eye on the brake fluid and try to find some time to clean the engine compartment.