Hi all,

My master brake cylinder seems like it is going bad 998 GS300 with 144,000 miles). Brakes are a little squishy and the Master Brake Cylinder is making a buzz (electronic pumping noise) when applying the brakes. I guess these are common issues on the 98 to 00. No idiot lights have come on or anything on the dash.. It appears this is a very expensive part from the dealer. I have seen one used on Ebay for 699.00. However, I noticed that Advance auto parts and Carquest has a refurbished part for like $200.00? There is no picture and the description is vague. The part # is 11-3431 and is made by Cardone.. Do you think that part is legit? Your advice is appreciated.

 

its just the reservoir with a reseal kit for the shaft/plunger, i replaced the entire faulty unit just yesterday with a unit i purchased off one of the members here, its like night and day. car feels a lot better when braking i have one of my customers that claims there is a used unit for sale locally, i can find out what they're asking for it and get back to you id you'd like?

 

Wow, so your car had the same type of symptoms? How much was the resevoir with a reseal kit for the shaft / plunger? Mine does not appear to be leaking, I am not sure if yours did.. I appreciate your response...

 

Ok, now I gotcha. The part on sale for at Advance is just a reseal kit. Boy it looks like I might have to replace the whole unit. I called Lexus and they said the master brake cylinder runs $1300 + the accumulator $1100 for a grand total of $2400. I thought the used one ebay was steep for $700. Wow, I am going to need to find one of those... By chance did your warning lights come on and did you have samiliar symptoms?

 

Before you do ANYTHING..id suggest you SEARCH and educate yourself with the problem and Options..Otherwise be prepared to spend money, and more money after it happens again

 

Thanks for the feedback. I have done some searching and only have found where the replacement of the whole master brake cylinder has been the solution to the symptoms I have. i was really hoping to find out that there is something minor to do to fix the issues I have. I have discovered that the 01 to 05 model is a better unit and matches except for one sensor. I am not sure exactly how to switch that but I am keeping my open. $2400 for a new unit is ridiculous. I do not have that kind of money. I am hoping to find one at a junk yard or order off ebay. I guess the good news is that it still works and I have no warning lights on.. I just do not like the fact there is some signs of the unit failing..

 

If anyone else has had a similiar issue that they were able to get the problem fixed another way I hope to hear some other opinions..

 

yes, 01 plus is best.

the sensor is am easy swap. 22mm socket i believe. loosen it on the car so it is easier.

 

By chance anyone get away with just replace the master brake cylinder and not the accumulator (the other part that is connected to the unit, maybe abs booster)? I am trying to find a all in one unit used but wanted to see about that.

 

I am going to keep my eye open but if anyone comes accross a good used one for a good deal, please PM me.

 

ive got a brand new master cylinder for sale

 

what are you trying to sell it for?

 

How much is it going for and what year is it?

 

$900.00
LEXUS GS400 GS300 MASTER CYLINDER 1998 1999 2000
bought it for $998.00 mechanic made a booboo didn't need it after all cant return to dealer.
626-500-6801