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

Step

Action

Normal Result(s)

Abnormal Result(s)*

1

Inspect the master cylinder fluid level.

Master cylinder fluid level between ADD and FULL.

Fill the master cylinder reservoir as needed.

Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling .

2
  1. Park brake not applied.
  2. Start the engine.

Brake warning indicator illuminates briefly (approximately 5 seconds) then turns off.
    • Refer to Brake Warning Indicator Always On .
    • Refer to Brake Warning Indicator Inoperative .

3

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

4

Release the brake pedal.

Brake pedal returns to normal height.

Refer to Brake System Slow Release .

5
  1. Press the brake pedal.
  2. Shift vehicle into DRIVE.
  3. Perform the 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.
    • Refer to Brake System Slow Response .
    • Refer to Brake Pedal Excessive Action .
    • Refer to Braking Action Uneven - Side to Side .
    • Refer to Brake System Groan at End of Stop .
    • Refer to Brakes Drag .

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