The brake master cylinder is the first "step" in your vehicle’s braking system. Pressing down on your brake pedal activates the brake master cylinder, pushing a piston through it that in turn sends brake fluid through the brake lines to engage pistons at the wheels and activate the brake calipers. With proper care, the master cylinder should last throughout the life of your vehicle.

You can prolong the life of your brake master cylinder, and entire braking system, by ensuring that the brake fluid reservoir is always kept full. However, you might encounter a faulty unit that would result in several symptoms, prompting an urgent checkup. These include 1) abnormal brake pedal behavior such as a sponge-like pedal that doesn’t spring back when depressed, 2) contaminated brake fluid that is dark brown or black (which can also lead to abnormal pedal behavior), and 3) an illuminated engine light triggered by brake fluid level and pressure sensors in the master cylinder. Don't put off a trip to your local car mechanic if you’re having trouble braking or notice any of these symptoms.

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