GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

With the engine running at idle and the shift lever in neutral, press the brake pedal and hold a constant foot pressure on the pedal. If the pedal gradually falls away with constant pressure, the hydraulic system may be leaking. Perform a visual inspection in order to confirm any suspected leak.

Inspect the master cylinder fluid level. While a slight drop in the reservoir level does result from lining wear, an abnormally low level in either reservoir may indicate a leak in the system. The hydraulic system may be leaking internally or externally. The system may appear to pass this test but still have slight leakage.

Inspect the following components for normal fluid level and external fluid leaks:

    • The master cylinder
    • The ABS modulator
    • The calipers
    • The wheel cylinder boots
    • The brake pipes
    • The hose connections

If no conditions are found, inspect the following components:

    • The brake pedal travel
    • The brake adjustment
    • The parking brake adjustment