While checking for a humming noise coming from God knows where..I noticed that the fluid seems/looks low in the center section of the reservoir..but it is showing it is topped off.. does this look right??



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I'm not going to comment on the fluid, sorry.

But I'll relate one thing that I have done to quiet mine. There is a thin stiff black ground wire going from the engine head to the firewall (on the 3rz anyhow). It is black and has a connector so it can be separated. I think I have seen it in 5VZ photos as well.

When it is reasonably cold, a lot of engine noise is transmitted to the firewall which acts as a drum. I spent a lot of time upside down under the dash before this one became apparent. And I mean cold, you California guys need not worry.

I tried replacing it with a softer more flexible wire but that didn't help much. Then I extended, upsized and relocated the ground to the fender side to an unused nut. And then, quiet.

I should stress, this noise was not audible from the engine bay except with a stethescope.

Hope this helps someone.

Weekend bump for an answer to if something is wonky with my fluid level in the middle part of reservoir


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Bueller? Anybody.. I’m going to the junk yard this weekend so if I need a new reservoir I’ll pick one up.
If someone could just pop there hood open and take a look at there reservoir and let me know if that’s normal, I sure would appreciate it. Thanks


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I actually checked all of my fluid levels this weekend (on level ground) and my brake fluid level is at right where yours is (I have the same complicated brake master cylinder).

Don't quote me on this, but I think that empty space that you see is a sectioned off cavity in the reservoir. Presumably it's there to help keep the fluid level from sloshing around when taking turns?

Also, the fluid reservoir generally doesn't fail. It's the master cylinder that typically fails.

As I found out recently, on our particular model ('01-'02), the actual unit on the bottom that contains nitrogen and is jam packed with electronics can be the trouble maker, and have an absurdly high price tag from Toyota.

I hope the humming noise is not coming from the brake pump. If it is, then it is a pricey repair.

The brake fluid reservoir must have same volumes/leve on all pockets (or cavities what ever you call it). If the level is down on one, then check all 4 wheels to find any signs of a leak. For the rear, you'll have to pull the brake drums off to inspect the wheel cylinder.