GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 1998 🢒 Cavalier 🢒 Brakes 🢒 Hydraulic Brakes 🢒 Hydraulic Brake Diagnostic System Check

Step

Action

Normal Result(s)

Abnormal Result(s)*

1

Check the master cylinder fluid level.

Master cylinder fluid level between ADD and FULL.

Fill the Master Cylinder Reservoir if needed. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling .

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

Brake warning indicator illuminates briefly then turns off.

3

With the vehicle in PARK, perform Brake Pedal Travel Test. Refer to Brake Pedal Travel .
    • Brake pedal moves steadily towards floor, approximately 2-3  in.
    • Brake pedal stops and is firm against the pressure.
    • Brake Pedal Excessive Travel. Refer to Brake Pedal Excessive Travel .
    • Brake Pedal Travel Gradually Increases. Refer to Brake Pedal Travel Gradually Increases .
    • Brake Pedal Excessive Effort. Refer to Brake Pedal Excessive Effort .

4

Release the brake pedal.

Brake pedal returns to normal height.

Brake Pedal Slow Release. Refer to Brake System Slow Release .

5
  1. Press the brake pedal.
  2. Shift vehicle into DRIVE.
  3. Perform Brake System Test. Refer to Brake System Testing .
    • Braking action starts after applying the brakes.
    • Brakes do not grab - brake pedal does not vibrate.
    • Vehicle stops without excessive pedal effort.
    • Vehicle stops without pulling to one side.
    • Front and rear brakes apply evenly.
    • Vehicle stops without noise coming from the brakes.
    • Vehicle stops without noise coming from the Vacuum booster.
    • Brakes do not drag after releasing the brake pedal.
    • Brakes do not make noise while driving.
    • Brake System Slow Response. Refer to Brake System Slow Response .
    • Brake Pedal Excessive Action. Refer to Brake Pedal Excessive Action .
    • Braking Uneven - Side to Side. Refer to Braking Action Uneven - Side to Side .
    • Braking Uneven - Front to Rear. Refer to Braking Action Uneven - Front to Rear .
    • Brake System Noise with Brakes Applied. Refer to Brake System Noise with Brakes Applied .
    • Brake System Groan at End of Stop. Refer to Brake System Groan at End of Stop .
    • Brakes Drag. Refer to Brakes Drag .
    • Brakes System Noise with Brakes Not Applied. Refer to Brake System Noise with Brakes Not Applied .

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