Recall 10V499000: Brake Master Cylinder Seal

VEHICLE MAKE/MODEL: MODEL YEAR(S):

Lexus/GS 2006

Lexus/IS 2006

Lexus/RX 2004-2006

Toyota/Avalon 2005-2006

Toyota /Highlander 2004-2006

MANUFACTURER: Toyota Motor Corporation

MFR'S REPORT DATE: October 21, 2010

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 10V499000

NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: N/A

COMPONENT: Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Foundation Components: Master Cylinder

POTENTIAL NUMBER OF UNITS AFFECTED: 728544

SUMMARY:
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2005-2006 Avalon, model year 2004-2006 Highlander, model year 2004-2006 Lexus RX, and model year 2006 Lexus GS and IS vehicles. Brake fluid containing polymers is used that acts as lubricants for certain brake system components. If replacement brake fluid is used that does not contain such polymers, or that contains only small amounts, a part of the rubber seal located at the rear of the brake master cylinder may become dry, and the seal may curl during movement of the piston. If this occurs, a small amount of brake fluid could slowly leak from the seal into the brake booster.

CONSEQUENCE:
A leak of brake fluid could lead to a change in brake pedal feel and overtime a degradation in braking performance increasing the risk of a crash.

REMEDY:
Dealers will replace the seal with a newly designed one. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during November 2010. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331 and Lexus at 1-800-255-3987.

NOTES:
Owners may also contact The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.