anyone ever changed theirs? i've heard it's not super hard. should i try to do it or will i end up regretting that one?

 

The master cylinder is pretty easy to do, if you have the tools. I have never done it on a tl but I have on a few other hondas. So you can try it at your own risk.

Things you'll need are
-box end wrenches to take off the brakelines
-ratchet and sockets with extensions
-ratchet convertor that makes it move at angles
-magnet on an extension just incase you drop bolts
-syringe or something to take out the fluid from the reservoir
-new master cylinder
-big bottle of brake fluid
-and a friend
-lots of towels

1. Start off by taking off the cap on the master cylinder and disconnect the plugs for the brake fluid level sensor.
2. Drain the master cylinder using a syringe or stick towels in there to soak up the fluid.
3. Take off the bolts that keep the brake lines connected to the master cylinder. When you remove these lines some brake fluid may leak.
4. Take off the two bolts that are on the master cylinder that hold it onto the firewall. The master cylinder should come out now.
5. Test the new master cylinder by adding some fluid to it and pumping the piston shaft and see if fluid comes out the sides. (this also prevents more air from coming into the system) Have a bucket or something nearby to shoot into.
6. Install is reverse from the removal.
7. This is where the friend comes in, bleed the entire system.

Torque specs
Brake lines to master cylinder - 14 ft. lbs
Master Cylinder Mounting nut - 11 ft. lbs

*There might be things in your way when you remove the master cylinder. Since I have never done this in a TL I can't tell you what you have to remove to get the master cylinder out.

 

wow either way great write up. i'll take a look at it and see what it entails. i'll also call and see what it would cost to get it changed....then weigh it out. thanks!