The Recall Desk
HighNHTSA·13E026000·Announced 2013-05-29

Brake Parts Inc. Recalls Hydro-Max Brake Master Cylinders for Fluid Indicator Defect

Brake Parts Inc. is recalling specific Hydro-Max brake master cylinders because the fluid level indicator may fail to warn drivers of low brake fluid, potentially increasing crash risk.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural vehicle defect (brake master cylinder) that could increase the risk of a crash, but the source text does not report any injuries or fatalities, fitting the 'High' severity criteria for risk-of-harm products where injury has not yet been reported.

Plain-English summary

Brake Parts Inc. (BPI) is recalling certain Hydro-Max brake master cylinders branded as Raybestos p/n MC390565, NAPA p/n 390565, Carquest p/n E151557, and GM AC Delco p/n 18M870. These cylinders contain a 2.0 inch bore and 84 cubic inch reservoir equipped with a brake fluid level indicator switch and without a differential pressure switch. The affected units were manufactured between July 1, 2011, and April 12, 2012.

The defect involves the brake fluid level indicator (FLI), which may not properly detect a low brake fluid level situation and warn the driver. If the brake system develops an external leak, it may result in a loss of brake fluid below the detection level of the fluid indicator switch. Without a warning, the driver may be unaware that the brake fluid level is low. A low brake fluid level may reduce the available braking force, which could lengthen the required stopping distance and increase the risk of a crash.

BPI will notify customers and replace the fluid level indicator switch free of charge. The recall began in June 2013. Owners may contact BPI at 1-815-363-9000. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

The recalled product

Product
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER recall
Manufacturer
Brake Parts Inc.
Category
Vehicle — Brake System
Hazard
Affected units
624

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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