GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 2000 🢒 Impala 🢒 Brakes 🢒 Hydraulic Brakes 🢒 Brake System Diagnosis

Step

Action

Normal Result(s)

Abnormal Result(s)*

1

Inspect the master cylinder brake fluid level.

The brake fluid level is nominal.

The brake fluid is low.

2
  1. Turn the ignition OFF.
  2. Ensure that the park brake is released.
  3. Start the engine.
  1. The brake warning indicator turns on while the engine is cranking.
  2. The brake warning indicator turns off after the engine starts.

The brake warning indicator does not turn on while the engine is cranking.

The brake warning indicator stays on after the engine starts.

3
  1. Shift the transmission into park.
  2. Firmly press the brake pedal.
  1. The brake pedal moves steadily towards floor, approximately 50 mm (2 in).
  2. The brake pedal stops and is firm against the pressure.

The brake pedal does not move steadily (hard pedal or pedal moves erratically).

The brake pedal is too soft (travels too far toward the floor).

4

Release the brake pedal.

The brake pedal returns to the original position.

The brake pedal does NOT return to the original position.

5

Perform the brake system test. Refer to Brake System Testing .
    • The braking action starts immediately after applying the brakes.
    • The brakes operate smoothly and predictably. The brakes do not grab and the brake pedal does not pulsate.
    • The steering wheel and the brake pedal do not shake (pulsate) while the brakes are applied.
    • The vehicle stops without high brake pedal effort.
    • The vehicle stops without pulling to one side.
    • The front and rear brakes apply evenly.
    • The brakes operate without excessive noise.
    • The brakes do not drag (stay engaged) after the brake pedal is released.
    • The braking action is delayed after applying the brakes.
    • The brakes operate aggressively with low pressure applied to the brake pedal.
    • The steering wheel or the brake pedal pulsate while the brakes are applied.
    • The brake pedal effort is high or the vehicle is difficult to stop.
    • The vehicle pulls to one side while braking.
    • The front or rear brakes operate unevenly.
    • The brakes make noise.
    • The brakes drag (stay engaged) after the brake pedal is released.
    • * When possible, compare the test results with an identical vehicle/system that is known to be operating properly in order to verify the correct test results.
    • Refer to the appropriate symptom diagnostic table for the applicable abnormal result.