How do you know if you need a new master cylinder? Most of the time, if a brake component needs replacing, it leaves a trail to follow. This trail is made of stinky brake fluid. That's the good news. Following a trail of brake fluid will usually lead you to a current or future brake problem. There are lots of brake components that can go bad. You've got wheel cylinders, master cylinders, discs, boosters, ABS systems and even brake pads. Any of these things can make your brakes more exciting than you ever hoped. Excitement is not something we want out of our brakes.
If you think you need to replace your master cylinder, check out our brake troubleshooting checklist to be sure. If you're sure, read on and we'll walk you through the process. It's not bad at all.
What You'll Need:
- Open end or box wrenches
- Line or flare wrenches
- Screwdrivers
- Small pry bar or throwaway screwdriver
- Turkey baster
- New or Rebuilt master cylinder
- Brake cleaner
- Brake fluid
- Brake lube
- Safety glasses!
