Brake Booster Vacuum Pump Replacement
Enhancing Your Brakes Stopping Power is as Easy as Replacing the Booster Vacuum Pump
One of the most important components on the modern-day automobile are the brakes. The brake system counters the high speeds the vehicle can create and allows the driver to slow down safely. Without a functioning brake system, the danger of driving a car is amplified.
Your brake system is actually relatively complex. Keep on reading to learn about one of the lesser-known components of your brake’s functions.
What is a Brake Booster Vacuum Pump?
Simply put, the brake booster vacuum pump is a supplemental component to the primary braking system. As a supplemental device, the brake booster assists the effects of the hydraulic brakes.
In other words, the brake booster vacuum pump enhances the braking power in order to help your vehicle slow down from high speeds.
How Does the Brake Booster Vacuum Pump Function?
In a conventional car, the brake booster is composed of two chambers separated by a rubber diaphragm. When the brake pedal is depressed, the air is let into the brake side of the chamber through a valve that then seals off the vacuum. The air pressure on one side of the brake system increases the braking power.
However, in a diesel, supercharged or turbocharged car, the engine does not create the same vacuum.
When the engine cannot create the same brake boosting vacuum naturally, a brake booster vacuum pump is required to draw in extra air in order to create the same vacuum effect.
Interestingly enough, in locations with high altitudes, and a lower level of oxygen in the air, brake booster vacuum pumps are also necessary in order to create the braking power needed to drive safely.
What are the Signs my Car Needs a Vacuum Pump Replacement?
There are some common signs to look out for that will indicate that your car might be in need of a brake booster vacuum pump replacement.
- Excessive pressure on the brake is required to make it function
- Hissing noise when you depress the brake
- Delayed brake response
- Brake is difficult to use during stop and go driving scenarios
- The brake pedal drops to the floor when the car is stationary and the car is running
If you notice any of these signs in your vehicle, we recommend you refrain from driving, and have your car looked at by a professional.
The reason is that without a functioning brake booster vacuum pump, your brake system cannot create an adequate amount of braking power. This affects the effectiveness of your brakes and the safety of your driving.
What’s the Process for a Brake Booster Replacement?
The process for replacing your brake booster is relatively complex. We recommend you hire a professional to service your brakes instead of attempting this repair at home. When you get your brake booster vacuum pump replaced, the process normally occurs like this:
- The car battery is disconnected
- The car is raised and the engine shield is removed
- The faulty brake boost vacuum pump is located
- The brae booster hoses and electrical components are disconnected and the pump is removed
- The new brake booster is installed on the mounting bracket with the proper hoses and electrical connectors
- The car is lowered and the engine shield is re-installed
- The car battery is reconnected
- A diagnostic test is performed to check for proper vacuum operation
- The vehicle is road tested by a professional to confirm that the new system operates correctly
Your car is only as good as its brakes. Without them, your car is a safety hazard and should not be driven. That is why maintaining your brakes, including all their smaller components like the brake booster vacuum pump, is so crucial.
We can help you keep your brake system running in excellent condition. If you are curious about our service prices, contact us, and let’s chat!