How to Troubleshoot a Brake Vacuum Booster

How to Troubleshoot a Brake Vacuum Booster


The brake booster is a power braking system provided by a vacuum and hose mechanism attached to the system. This should, in theory, assist braking; however, if it is not working properly then you may find it actually makes pressing on the brake pedal to slow or stop the car much more difficult. Naturally, it is absolutely vital to remedy this potentially dangerous issue. There are steps you can take to diagnose and fix the problems.

Instructions
Pump the brake several times and hold the pedal down while attempting to start the engine. If the power brake is working, it will pull the pedal down further. If the pedal does not move, you have a problem. This confirms that you need to carry out a basic troubleshooting process.

Start the engine and check for vacuum in the hose. The engine should smooth out if you plug the hose end. If you don't feel the vacuum suction, the problem is a restricted vacuum port and this must be cleaned.

Attach the valve and hose to the brake booster and listen for any air leakage. This indicates a cracked booster, which you must have replaced for the mechanism to work properly.

Replace the booster if the brake still has no power assist and you have exhausted the previous steps.

What Are the Functions of the Brake System?

What Are the Functions of the Brake System?

A brake system is one of the most important parts of a vehicle. No matter what kind of vehicle people use, an efficient braking system will always be of utmost concern to ensure safety.

Deceleration
The main function of the brake system is to decelerate or decrease the speed of a vehicle. By stepping on the brake pedal, the brake pads compress against the rotor attached to the wheel, which then forces the vehicle to slow down due to friction.

Absorption
A brake system absorbs the kinetic energy of the vehicle mechanically or electrically in order to decrease its speed. In mechanical brakes, friction converts the kinetic energy into heat. In electric brakes, an electric current forces a magnet to apply the brakes.

Brake Booster
Vehicles have power brake boosters in order to boost or enhance the pressure applied in the brake pedal. They minimize the pressure needed from the driver to decelerate or stop the vehicle.

Antilock Brake System (ABS)
The anti-lock brake system modulates the brake pressure along the wheels, allowing the driver to control and maintain speed, as well as to stop the vehicle in the shortest possible distance.

Hand Brake
Also known as the parking brake, the hand brake is a mechanical lever that allows the driver to put the vehicle into an emergency stop in case of a brake failure. It is totally separate from the vehicle's hydraulic brake system.