The break pedal is gone soft. It still stops but with way more travel in the pedal than before.

Would this probably be the master cylinder? Is there any way to check short of putting a new one in?

Thanks

 

Sure sounds like a master cylinder to me.If you don't have any leaks then there are only a couple of places to look. Check the flex hoses going to the front wheels. Have somebody step on the pedal while you watch them for any bulges or abnormalities. if they look good, then I suggest you go to NAPA and you can get a cylinder with a lifetime warranty for under $40. I have had to replace mine more than once too. Just make sure you bench bleed it first or you may never get a decent pedal.
Tom

 

$40, eh? I was quoted $180. Maybe the 4 wheel ABS is more?

 

The ususal cause of soft pedal is air in the system or a stuck combination valve. Right down beside the brake master cylinder is a valve body with a plunger sticking out the front. Have someone work the brakes while you watch the plunger, if it moves you likely simply need to bleed the brakes. If it is stuck in on position or another, you need to replace the combination valve.

It is a very good idea to bleed these brakes at least once every two years by using commercial brake bleeder system that pressurizes the entire system at one time. That prevents the combination valve from slipping and sticking.