Significant advancements have been taking place in the automotive industry. Present-day vehicles have been designed to yield better functionality and enhance the driving experience of the drivers. These innovative minds have introduced parts that leave an impact on the overall performance of the car. One of these is a brake booster, also known as “Brake Servo” or “Vacuum Booster,” heightens the performance of the brakes. It is generally placed between the brake pedal and brake master cylinder that multiplies the force exerted by the driver on the pedals. This force is further given to the master cylinder, which helps the driver brake effectively and comfortably.
Like other car parts these boosters start giving issues and it’s time to check the brake booster symptoms and resolve the issues to prevent more issues later on.
Why Do We Need Brake Boosters?
A brake booster is added to the vehicle due to the following reasons:
- The brake applied by the driver isn’t sufficient to stop or decelerate the car. Therefore, this force is multiplied by the brake booster and helps apply brakes effectively.
- A lot of pedal force is applied while actuating the master cylinder and gives more fatigue to the driver. The smooth actuation of brakes has been possible due to the brake booster.
- The chances of brake failure have drastically reduced with the introduction of brake boosters and minimize panic braking among drivers.
- In the case of heavy-duty vehicles, the force applied while stopping or decelerating the vehicles is quite high and is generally reduced with the help of a booster.
Ways to Identify a Bad Brake Booster
Like other car components, poor maintenance makes the brake booster wear out or leads to complete failure. In such cases changing the brake booster is a suitable course of action. Check the following brake booster symptoms and consult a professional mechanic who would fix the problematic brake booster in no time:
Difficulties Engaging the Brake Pedal
A properly working vacuum booster check valve leads to smooth pressure application. On the contrary, the application of brakes becomes a hassle for us. These problems occur due to brake issues, and the brake booster must be changed with the help of a certified mechanic.
Spongy Brakes
As the issues with the brake booster check valve issues increase, air bubbles start moving towards the brake lines and reaching towards the brake. A check valve is expected to eliminate these air bubbles, and the pressure inside the brake lines decreases. As a result, the driver would get a spongy feeling out of the brake, and the car takes time to stop. In such cases, the brake system should be seriously inspected. Discontinue driving if such a situation occurs and get it inspected by a certified professional.
Brakes Stopped Working Completely
The worst situation takes place when the vacuum booster check valve fails completely. It is better to safely stop the vehicle and seek the assistance of towing service to take it back home. Determine the brake booster replacement charges from the mechanic and resolve the issue for the smooth working of the car.
How Much Does Brake Booster Replacement Cost?
The average brake booster replacement cost falls between $325-$1250.Labor charges are levied separately between $100-$200.The cost of parts is as low as $100 as it could escalate up to $900.The cost generally depends on the make and model of the car and the rates charged by the mechanic. Save money by getting a brake booster from the reputed car parts store ‘The Auto Parts Shop,’ bringing affordable and top-notch car parts to you.
Benefits of Brake Booster Replacement
Brake booster replacement gives you better control over the brake. You’ll be able to slow down your car promptly and lead to smoother corners. In addition, you would notice significant improvements in the fuel economy. Braking consumes a copious amount of fuel and leaves a significant impact on fuel mileage.
Can You Perform Brake Booster Replacement on Your Own?
You must possess sound knowledge before planning a brake booster replacement. The steps performed during brake booster replacement have been listed as follows:
- The brake booster system will be installed based on your car. The check valve or any other valve present in the vehicle must be inspected thoroughly and must be fixed to prevent issues from getting worse.
- First of all, take out the master cylinder and hydraulic brake lines. Sometimes brake lines are so long that they stay with the master cylinder. At times the need to take out the battery and battery lines arise.
- The next thing is the vacuum hose clamp that must be eradicated using the pliers, and the brake booster vacuum supply hose must be detached.
- Take the booster push rod out from the brake pedal and separate the faulty brake booster from its bracket on the firewall.
- A new booster is installed along with the booster rod, vacuum hose, and other parts. Make sure that every bolt is tight.
- Test the car to ensure that everything runs smoothly and check how the vehicle works with a new brake unit.
The Bottom Line
A malfunctioning brake booster will degrade the performance of the brakes and lead to costly repairs when neglected. Instead, improve the functionality of the brakes by investing in a top-quality brake booster and having a smooth and safe ride.