Brake Assist System Testing

2004 Oldsmobile Bravada AWDSECTION Brake Assist System Testing
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Were you sent here from DIAGNOSTIC STARTING POINT - HYDRAULIC BRAKES? If so, go to next step. If not, go to DIAGNOSTIC STARTING POINT - HYDRAULIC BRAKES  under TROUBLE SHOOTING.
  2. Inspect for proper brake pedal travel. Is the brake pedal travel distance within the acceptable limits? If so, go to step  5 . If not, go to next step.
  3. Inspect for worn, missing, misaligned, bent or damaged brake pedal system components. For the brake pedal pushrod component inspection, see BRAKE PEDAL PUSHROD INSPECTION  . Inspect the brake pedal bushings for excessive wear and/or damage and inspect the brake pedal for a misaligned, bent and/or damaged condition. Replace the brake pedal system components that are worn, missing, misaligned, bent or damaged. See BRAKE PEDAL ASSEMBLY  and POWER BRAKE BOOSTER  under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. Did you find and replace any worn, missing, misaligned, bent or damaged brake pedal system components? If so, go to next step. If not, go to step  5 .
  4. Reinspect for proper brake pedal travel. See BRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL MEASUREMENT & INSPECTION  under ADJUSTMENTS & INSPECTIONS. Is the brake pedal travel distance within the acceptable limits? If so, go to step  8 . If not, go to next step.
  5. Check the engine vacuum source that supplies vacuum to the vacuum brake booster. Is the vacuum reading within the acceptable limits? If so, go to next step. If not, see appropriate VACUUM DIAGRAMS article in ENGINE PERFORMANCE, or ENGINE MECHANICAL article in ENGINES.
  6. During the vacuum source inspection, did the vacuum booster check valve operate properly? If so, go to step  8 . If not, go to next step.
  7. Replace the vacuum booster check valve. See POWER BRAKE BOOSTER CHECK VALVE AND/OR HOSE  under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. After repairs are complete, go to next step.
  8. Pump the brake pedal several times until the brake pedal becomes hard. Maintain moderate foot pressure on the brake pedal and start the engine. Observe pedal operation. Did the brake pedal drop slightly, then remain firm after the engine was started? If so, go to next step. If not, go to step  12 .
  9. Release the brake pedal. Turn the ignition OFF, then wait 15 seconds. Pump the brake pedal 2 times to check for vacuum booster available vacuum reserve. Observe pedal effort. (If operating properly, the vacuum brake booster should maintain assist for at least 2 pedal applications.) Did the brake pedal effort increase significantly? If so, go to step  12 . If not, go to next step.
  10. Inspect the brake pedal pushrod and the brake pedal for misalignment, a bent condition and/or damage. Is the brake pedal pushrod and/or the brake pedal misaligned, bent or damaged? If so, go to next step. If not, go to step  13 .
  11. Replace the brake pedal pushrod and/or the brake pedal, as necessary. After repairs are complete, go to step  13 .
  12. Replace the vacuum brake booster. After repairs are complete, go to next step.
  13. Install or connect any components that were removed or disconnected during diagnosis. Did you complete the operation? If so, system is okay. If not, go to step  2 .
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.