CarFix Answers

2005–2006 Toyota Avalon: Brake pedal feels different or sinks (master cylinder seal recall)

Likely causes, ranked

  1. Curled master cylinder seal$0–$0Shop

Real-owner fix counts will appear here as reports come in.

DIY or shop: See DIY or shop section

Parts to check

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Symptom: A change in brake pedal feel, a falling fluid level, or a brake warning light.

Likely causes

  1. Curled master cylinder seal. Toyota replaces the seal.

DIY or shop?

Dealer. Recall repairs are free.

Useful steps

  1. Check your VIN for 10V499.
  2. Use the correct brake fluid.

Vehicle focus: 2005–2006 Toyota Avalon.

Safety / mechanic note

Leaking brake fluid can reduce braking. Verify with a mechanic or dealer.

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Recalls & service bulletins

Recalls

  • 10V499000 2010-10-21 2005–2006 Avalon and some Highlander and Lexus models: if replacement brake fluid lacks certain additives, the rear master cylinder seal can dry out and leak fluid into the booster. Dealers fit a redesigned seal. Details

NHTSA complaints: 45 keyword-matched complaints for Toyota AVALON 2005–2006 (of 587 unique complaints queried, NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-15).

Always check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Sources

What actually fixed it?

Had this problem? Tell other owners what the real fix was. Reports are counted above; we never show made-up numbers.

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