FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
Courtesy of Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Pinpoint Test G: Excessive Brake Pedal Effort



G1: CHECK BRAKE PADS
1. Check the brake pads for wear, contamination, correct installation, damage and type.
^ Are any concerns found?
-> Yes
INSTALL the front brake pads correctly or INSTALL new front brake pads if necessary. For additional information, refer to Front Disc Brake.
INSTALL the rear brake pads correctly or INSTALL new rear brake pads if necessary. For additional information, refer to Rear Disc Brake.
REPEAT road test.
-> No
Goto [G2]

G2: CHECK VACUUM
1. Disconnect the vacuum booster hose from the booster.
2. Connect a vacuum/pressure tester to the vacuum hose.
3. Run the engine at normal operating temperature.
4. Record the vacuum reading.
^ Is the reading 40.5 kPa (12 inch Hg) or greater?
-> Yes
Goto [G3]
-> No
LOCATE and REPAIR the source of low vacuum. TEST the system for normal operation.

G3: INSPECT SYSTEM
1. Switch the engine off.
2. Reconnect the vacuum hose.
3. Inspect the brake booster, rubber grommet, and all vacuum plumbing for cracks, holes, damaged connections, or missing clamps.
4. Pump the brake pedal several times to exhaust the vacuum. Push down on the brake pedal and hold.
^ Does the brake pedal move down when the engine is started?
-> Yes
Vacuum system is OK.
-> No
Goto [G4]

G4: CHECK POWER BRAKE BOOSTER VALVE
1. Check the brake booster valve. For additional information, refer to Brake Booster.
^ Is the power brake booster valve OK?
-> Yes
CHECK the brake booster. For additional information, refer to Brake Booster.
INSTALL a new brake booster if necessary. TEST the system for normal operation.
-> No
INSTALL a new brake booster valve. TEST the system for normal operation.