Two problems related to brake master cylinder have been reported for the 1998 Chevrolet Lumina. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Brakes failed. Towed to Chevrolet dealer and was told fluid looked contaminated. Dealer replaced master cylinder and flushed brake fluid.
This problem was addressed properly by the dealership, but the problem still exists. I would appreciate an opportunity to discuss the problem in depth with a NHTSA representative due to the problem dating back to a 1993 Lumina, a 1995 Lumina and now the 1998 Lumina. I have had a lot of experience with brake systems and feel that I can possibility help to answer some of the complaints of drivers stating that their brake pedal went to the floor board. When I had my car serviced, the serviceman stated that he had compared my vehicle brakes and found them to be almost the same as on the new vehicles. I do agree that some of the new vehicles have the same bleed down problem as my vehicle and that is my concern. The service manager agreed that he was concerned about the operation of my brakes and decided to replace the master cylinder and arranged for me to have a car to keep me from driving the car home . Although the problem was only an unusually fast pedal bleed down the manager stated that he too, has a concern about the brake problem and had ordered a brake master cylinder. The new clylinder did reduce the required braking effort but there is still excessive brake pedal bleed down under light pedal force. I think I can help to determine the problem and suggest a correction. I will discuss this with the leader service manager. I owned a 1993 Lumina and experienced the brake pedal "going to the floor board" which very nearly caused me to have two major accidents. The dealership kept assuring me that my car brakes worked as good as all the new cars. With the help of the st. Louis better business bureau and a brake test off of oil change ramps, the bbb report convinced gm to buy back my 1993 Lumina. I feel that the only way to communicate with the NHTSA is by reviewing the mechanics of the brake system, brake fluid flow and test procedures. Please contact me for further information. How many owners have had similiar problems.