GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Step

Action

Normal Result(s)

Abnormal Result(s)*

1

Check the master cylinder fluid level.

Master cylinder fluid level between ADD and FULL.

Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling

2

Check the power steering fluid level.

Power steering fluid level between ADD and FULL.

Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid

3

Perform Hydraulic Booster Fuctional Test. Refer to Hydraulic Booster Functional Test .

Brake pedal falls away and then pushes back.

Accumulator Leak-Down System Not Holding Charge

4

  1. Turn ignition OFF.
  2. Park brake not applied.
  3. Start the engine.

Brake warning indicator illuminates briefly (approximately 5 seconds).

5

With the vehicle in PARK, perform Brake Pedal Travel Test. Refer to Brake Pedal Travel .

    â€¢ Brake pedal moves steadily towards floor, approximately 2-3 in.
    â€¢ Brake pedal stops and is firm against the pressure (Hydraulic brake booster may hiss or clunk/click/clatter with high brake pedal effort).
    â€¢  Brake Pedal Excessive Travel
    â€¢  Brake Pedal Excessive Effort

6

Depress the brake pedal.

Brake pedal returns to normal height.

Brake Pedal Slow Return

7

  1. Press the brake pedal.
  2. Shift vehicle into DRIVE.
  3. Perform Brake System Test. Refer to Brake System Testing .
    â€¢ Braking action starts after applying the brakes.
    â€¢ Brakes do not grab - brake pedal does not vibrate.
    â€¢ Vehicle stops without excessive pedal effort.
    â€¢ Vehicle stops without pulling to one side.
    â€¢ Front and rear brakes apply evenly.
    â€¢ Vehicle stops without noise coming from the brakes.
    â€¢ Vehicle stops without noise coming from the hydraulic booster.
    â€¢ Brakes do not drag after releasing the brake pedal.
    â€¢ Brakes do not make noise while driving.
    â€¢  Brake System Slow Response
    â€¢  Brake Pedal Excessive Effort
    â€¢  Brakes Drag

8

While driving the vehicle, turn the steering wheel without pressing the brake pedal.

Brakes do not apply while turning the steering wheel.

Brakes Self Apply When Turning Steering Wheel

* Refer to the appropriate symptom diagnostic table for the applicable abnormal result.