I have a 2000 Toyota Prado 3.4-litre petrol model. When you hit the brakes, you hear a gurgling noise coming from the brake master cylinder (this master cylinder has an accumulator attached to it). So, whatâs the solution? Replace it with a new one for $3500 one or buy a second-hand one thatâs 20 years old at $1500? The car is worth $12,000 so Iâd like to recondition the existing one, but no one does it anymore.

Can I replace the master cylinder on my 2000 Toyota Prado with a second-hand one?

I have a 2000 Toyota Prado 3.4-litre petrol model. When you hit the brakes, you hear a gurgling noise coming from the brake master cylinder (this master cylinder has an accumulator attached to it). So, what’s the solution? Replace it with a new one for $3500 one or buy a second-hand one that’s 20 years old at $1500? The car is worth $12,000 so I’d like to recondition the existing one, but no one does it anymore.

Answered by CarsGuide

8 October 2020

David Morley

The brake master cylinder fitted to your Prado uses an accumulator to ensure that there’s always some brake pressure available to enable the ABS braking to work instantaneously and seamlessly. You should be able to hear the pump running (probably the gurgling sound you’re reporting) from time to time, but not every time you press the brake pedal.

You may need a new master cylinder, but it’s also possible that there’s air in the system and it requires bleeding. There’s a specific procedure for bleeding this type of master cylinder, and it’s not the same as that for a conventional vacuum-boosted master cylinder.

In any case, your information that nobody reconditions these units any longer is incorrect. There’s an operation called Injectronics that can, indeed, recondition and test your existing master cylinder, usually for less than $2000. That, I would suggest, is your best path forward. Check out injectronics.com.au

Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.

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