GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Oldsmobile 🢒 2000 🢒 Intrigue 🢒 Brakes 🢒 Hydraulic Brakes 🢒 Hydraulic Brake Diagnostic System Check

Step

Action

Normal Result(s)

Abnormal Result(s)*

1

Inspect the master cylinder brake fluid level.

The brake fluid level is normal.

The brake fluid is low. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling .

2
  1. Ensure that the ignition is OFF.
  2. Ensure that the park brake is released.
  3. Start the engine.

Upon engine start, the brake warning indicator turns on for approximately 3 seconds, then turns off after the engine starts.
    • Brake warning indicator stays on. Refer to
    • Brake warning indicator does not illuminate. Refer to Brake Warning Indicator Inoperative

3
  1. Ensure that the transmission is in Park.
  2. Firmly press and hold 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). Refer to Brake Pedal Excessive Travel .

4

Release the brake pedal.

The brake pedal returns to the original position.

The brake pedal does NOT return to the original position. Refer to Brake System Diagnosis .

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.
    • The steering wheel and the brake pedal do not 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. Refer to Brake System Diagnosis .
    • The brakes operate aggressively with low pressure applied to the brake pedal Brake System Diagnosis .
    • The steering wheel or the brake pedal pulsate while the brakes are applied. Refer to Brake System Diagnosis .
    • The brake pedal effort is high or the vehicle is difficult to stop Brake System Diagnosis .
    • The vehicle pulls to one side while braking. Refer to Brake System Diagnosis .
    • The front or rear brakes operate unevenly. Refer to Brake System Diagnosis .
    • The brakes make noise. Refer to Brake System Diagnosis .
    • The brakes drag (stay engaged) after the brake pedal is released. Refer to Brake System Diagnosis .
    • * 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.