Service and Cost
Typical Cost
1. Replacement Costs: - Parts: The cost of a new brake booster can range from $100 to $300 for most vehicles. High-end or luxury vehicles may have more expensive parts, potentially reaching $500 or more. - Labor: Labor costs can vary widely depending on the complexity of the job and local labor rates. Typically, labor can range from $100 to $300. The job usually takes about 2 to 4 hours.2. Repair Costs: - Repairing a brake booster is less common than replacing it, as it often involves specialized skills and tools. If repair is possible, it might cost between $100 and $200, but this is highly dependent on the specific issue and availability of repair services.
3. Additional Costs: - Brake Fluid: If the brake booster is replaced, the brake system may need to be bled, and new brake fluid may be required, adding a small additional cost. - Diagnostics: If the issue with the brake booster is not immediately apparent, diagnostic fees may apply, typically ranging from $50 to $100.
4. DIY vs. Professional Service: - If you have the skills and tools to replace the brake booster yourself, you can save on labor costs. However, this is a complex task that requires a good understanding of vehicle brake systems.
Typical Service Procedure
1. Diagnosis: Before any replacement or repair, a thorough diagnosis is performed to confirm that the brake booster is the source of the problem. This may involve checking for symptoms like a hard brake pedal, hissing noises, or poor braking performance.
2. Brake Booster Removal: Disconnect the Battery:To ensure safety, the vehicle's battery is usually disconnected. Remove Components:Parts that obstruct access to the brake booster, such as the master cylinder, brake lines, and sometimes parts of the intake manifold, may need to be removed. Disconnect the Booster:The brake booster is disconnected from the brake pedal inside the vehicle and unbolted from the firewall.
3. Inspection: Once removed, the brake booster and related components are inspected for damage or wear. This includes checking the vacuum hose and check valve for leaks or cracks.
4. Replacement or Repair Replacement:If the brake booster is faulty, it is typically replaced with a new or remanufactured unit. This is often the preferred option as it ensures reliability. Repair:In some cases, especially with older or rare vehicles, the brake booster might be repaired. This could involve replacing seals or diaphragms within the unit.
5. Reinstallation The new or repaired brake booster is installed, and all components are reconnected. This includes reattaching the brake pedal linkage, vacuum hose, and any other parts that were removed. The master cylinder and brake lines are reattached, ensuring there are no leaks.
6. System Testing Bleeding the Brakes:The brake system is bled to remove any air that may have entered during the process. Vacuum Test:The vacuum system is tested to ensure the booster is receiving adequate vacuum pressure. Functional Test:The brake system is tested to ensure proper operation, including checking the brake pedal feel and stopping performance.
7. Final Inspection: A final inspection is conducted to ensure all components are securely fastened and there are no leaks or other issues.
8. Documentation: Any repairs or replacements are documented, and the vehicle owner is informed of the work done and any recommendations for future maintenance.These steps ensure that the brake booster is functioning correctly and safely, restoring the vehicle's braking performance to its intended level.
What is a Brake Booster and What Does It Do?
A brake booster is a component in a vehicle's braking system that helps reduce the effort required by the driver to apply the brakes. It is typically located between the brake pedal and the master cylinder. The primary function of the brake booster is to amplify the force exerted by the driver on the brake pedal, making it easier to slow down or stop the vehicle.The brake booster operates using a vacuum system, which is why it is often referred to as a vacuum brake booster.
When the driver presses the brake pedal, the brake booster uses the vacuum generated by the engine to create a pressure differential. This pressure differential amplifies the force from the brake pedal, allowing the master cylinder to apply more pressure to the brake fluid, which in turn engages the brakes at the wheels with greater force.In vehicles with a vacuum brake booster, the engine's intake manifold typically provides the vacuum.
However, in vehicles with turbocharged or diesel engines, which may not produce sufficient vacuum, an auxiliary vacuum pump might be used.Overall, the brake booster is a crucial component for enhancing braking performance and ensuring that the driver can apply the brakes with minimal effort, contributing to safer and more comfortable driving.
Signs of a bad Brake Booster
The brake booster is a critical component in a vehicle's braking system, designed to amplify the force applied to the brake pedal, making it easier to stop the vehicle. When a brake booster begins to fail, it can lead to a variety of symptoms that can compromise braking performance and safety. Here are some common signs of a failing brake booster:
1. Increased Brake Pedal Effort: One of the most noticeable signs of a failing brake booster is the need to apply more force to the brake pedal to achieve the same stopping power. This happens because the booster is no longer effectively amplifying the force applied by the driver.
2. Hard Brake Pedal: A brake pedal that feels hard or stiff when pressed can indicate a problem with the brake booster. This is often due to a loss of vacuum pressure, which is essential for the booster to function properly.
3. Longer Stopping Distances: If the brake booster is not working correctly, the vehicle may take longer to come to a complete stop, even with increased pedal effort. This can be dangerous, especially in emergency braking situations.
4. Hissing Noise: A hissing sound when the brake pedal is pressed can indicate a vacuum leak in the brake booster. This noise is often due to air escaping from the booster or its associated vacuum lines.
5. Engine Stalling or Rough Idle: A vacuum leak in the brake booster can affect engine performance, leading to stalling or a rough idle. This is because the engine relies on a stable vacuum for proper operation.
6. Brake Warning Light: In some vehicles, a failing brake booster may trigger the brake warning light on the dashboard. This light can indicate various issues within the braking system, so it’s important to have the vehicle inspected by a professional.
7. Fluid Leaks: Although less common, a brake booster can develop internal leaks, if it is a hydraulic booster. This can lead to a loss of brake fluid, which can further impair braking performance.If you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. A failing brake booster can significantly reduce braking efficiency and increase the risk of accidents.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
