Most motorcar brakes nowadays hold energy boosters which sometimes fail.
Since of the prevalence of CD brakes, power-boosted braking systems like now come morals on almost all fresh automobiles and recent-model used vehicles. CD brakes are not self-energizing liking drum brakes, so they need a dynamism brake booster to control pedal attempt fair for all drivers. On the contrary agnate any human-made Slogan, capability brake boosters can animation defective.
Booster Failure
The relevant symptom of power brake booster failure is a hovering, exhausting pedal that requires preferable than commonplace pedal force to mark the vehivle, according to the SouthernRods.com Car performance website. You may again observance that it takes a yet longer distance than customary to brick wall your acar The grand, firm pedal and longer stopping distance niggardly you are not getting power boost.
Proper Function
Booster problems may indicate failure of the booster unit itself or problems in the vacuum system that powers the booster. A vacuum system problem may leave you with only partial boost, according to SouthernRods.com. To test for vacuum problems, start the engine and run it to medium speed, then turn off ignition and take your foot off the gas.
Testing Booster
Most power brake systems in autos are vacuum-based, using the difference between engine intake vacuum and atmospheric pressure as their power source, according to SouthernRods.com. To test your brake booster, pump the brakes several times with the engine off to deplete stored vacuum. Turn on the engine while pressing lightly on the brake pedal. You should feel the pedal fall away a bit and then become firm, but not hard. If you feel nothing at the pedal when the engine starts, your brake booster is not functioning.
Another Test
A properly functioning power brake system should provide power assist on first application of the brakes every time, with normal pedal travel, pedal pressure and stopping distance, according to SouthernRods.com. However, if your brake pedal is low, spongy, requires pumping or fails under steady pressure, the brake booster likely is not at fault. These are indications of other serious problems in your braking system that require prompt attention. Wait about a minute and a half and then apply your brakes. You should feel the vacuum boost on at least two brake applications. If you do not, you may have a vacuum system leak or bad vacuum check valve.
