Ok, brake light started coming on a couple days ago. I checked the fluid, was down to the MIN line in the reservoir. I topped it off, brake light stopped, great. Started looking for a leak and shortly realized fluid had leaked from the ABS actuator. Not the top where the brake lines go in but somewhere on the bottom or rear? Strangest part, it doesn't seem to be leaking anymore? Brake fluid level is steady. I never got an ABS warning light.

Obviously I need to replace the actuator and bleed the system. I'm just wondering what happened? Does the actuator ever vent fluid? Is that a thing? Brakes are working fine. I replaced the front rotors and pads about 5k miles ago. I did not disconnect the brake lines though so I didn't bleed the system. I had the rear brakes adjusted and the system bled last year at my local shop. As I said, brakes have been working fine.

Thoughts?

Generally that is a “no need to ever mess with” part on the brake system. Worst case, there are reports of air getting stuck in the actuator in brake bleeding scenarios, but never any fluid leaking.

All too convenient, but I am selling an ABS actuator from my 2000 if you need.

We are leaving for California in a few days. If you still have it when we get back (July 2nd) I'll gladly buy it off you.

I'm more puzzled and curious. I suppose it's possible for any part to break or go bad. Like you, I assumed this was one of those with a very low probability of ever having to replace. I guess I'm just a lucky guy 🤨 haha

Thank you for the reply.

Do you still have the actuator? I'm back from Cali and ready to get that thing swapped out.

Sending a PM

This is the only thread I could locate which is similar to my situation. I'm looking for input regarding whether this is something commonly encountered on 3rd gen 4runners.

I have a fairly clean & stock 1998 4runner Limited with 186k. Over the past couple of months, I've noticed a slight brake pedal pulsation which I attributed to possible warped rotors. A rear axle seal leak was repaired a year ago so the rear brakes are fairly new. I was planning on replacing front rotors and pads soon. However, the brake light in the dash illuminated due to master cylinder fluid dropping to minimum threshold. After sitting overnight, it appears brake fluid has been leaking from the ABS Actuator.

My findings so far: A new ABS actuator is over $700. Most used actuators appear to be in poor condition with unknown service life. Any input would be appreciated.

Hey,
I bought the used actuator rideexileex was offering. I swapped it in, pretty easy, if a bit messy, and I haven't had any problems since. I took my old one apart and there's just nothing to service in them. I'm still not sure why it leaked.

Unless money is no object, buy a used one and install it. That would be my input.


DBW

I haven't seen one of those leak yet. Thanks for sharing...

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Yeah, I know, strange failure...it's too bad they can't be fixed or serviced somehow. So, I guess it's a pretty rare problem (lucky me!!)

Thanks for the input. I bought a replacement ABS Actuator at the junkyard for $40. Went ahead and replaced the master cylinder, front pads, rotors and rebuilt the calipers. Everything is good so far. I'm really enjoying this 3rd gen (previously had a 5th gen TRD ORP but sold it back to the dealer after 3 years).

Good deal the junkyard one got you going.

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