GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Pontiac 🢒 2000 🢒 Firefly (Canada) 🢒 Brakes 🢒 Hydraulic Brakes 🢒 Hydraulic Brake Diagnostic System Check

Step

Action

Normal Results

Abnormal Results*

1

Inspect the level of the brake fluid.

The level of the brake fluid is between the ADD mark and the FULL mark.

The level of the brake fluid is incorrect. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling .

2
  1. Turn the ignition OFF.
  2. Ensure the park brake is not applied.
  3. Start the engine.

The brake warning indicator illuminates for a short period of time.

3

Engage the park brake.

The brake warning indicator illuminates.

Brake Warning Indicator Inoperative

3
  1. If the vehicle has an automatic transmission, ensure the vehicle is in PARK. If the vehicle has a manual transmission, ensure the vehicle is in NEUTRAL.
  2. Turn the engine OFF.
  3. Perform the Brake Pedal Travel Test. Refer to Brake Pedal Travel .
    • The brake pedal moves steadily towards the floor 59-73 mm (2.3-2.8 in).
    • The brake pedal stops and is firm against the pressure.

4
  1. Ensure the park brake is applied.
  2. Ensure the engine is ON.
  3. Depress the brake pedal.
  4. Release the brake pedal.

The brake pedal returns to the correct height. For specifications, refer to Brake Pedal Travel .

Brake System Slow Release

5

Perform the Brake System Test. Refer to Brake System Testing .
    • When you press the brake pedal, the braking action starts.
    • The braking action increases as the brake pedal pressure increases.
    • The brake pedal does not vibrate.
    • The vehicle stops without excessive pedal effort.
    • The vehicle stops without pulling to one side.
    • The braking of the front wheels and of the rear wheels is even.
    • The vehicle stops without brake noise.
    • The vehicle stops without noise coming from the vacuum booster.
    • The braking action decreases as the brake pedal pressure decreases.
    • The vehicle accelerates without brake noise.
    •  Brake Pulsation
    •  Brakes Drag

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