Hard brake pedal

Hello, I'm Harry. Given your description, I would suspect the brake booster is failing. But first I'd check the vacuum lines for leaks. Especially the one going to the booster. Also take a good look at that check valve (mounted to the booster, vacuum hose one the other side of it). If it's allowing any blowback then it could easily be your issue. Replacing it is cheap and should be done even if you need a new booster too. I'm attaching instructions on the check valve to this post. I'll do another post shortly regarding removing and replacing the booster.

And here's the booster procedure. In my experience, while I haven't done the job on your specific vehicle, I suggest removing the driver's seat. It'll be a little more bearable.

Thank you very much for the information. My mechanic could not duplicate the problem, so I will let him know what I think should be done. Thanks again, Roosevelt.

If he couldn't duplicate it, then my money is on that check valve. It's sticking occasionally. Eventually it'll get worse. I'd order one off of Amazon or Rockauto while it's not a pressing issue and either go ahead with replacement or at least have it on the shelf and ready. It'll be cheaper that way.

Thanks, I'll do that! I appreciate your help. Roosevelt.

Hi,

I noticed we haven't heard from you for a few days. Did the check valve eliminate the problems you were having? We're interested in knowing.

Joe

Hello, I haven't had the car serviced yet, I'm planning on doing it this week. It seems to be rather difficult finding the part for this vehicle. Thanks for the follow up, I will let you know what happens.

Hi,

No problem whatsoever. We like to know if progress is made or if additional help is needed. We'll wait until we hear from you.

Take care,

Joe

Hey again. I did some poking around and found the check valve. Here it is on Amazon. AutoZone has a comparable price and should have it on the shelf. It's Dorman brand part #80189.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003GBIJ5I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_RPTVR87DPW1054SMPZEC

Hope that helps you.

Wow, I really appreciate you finding that! You guys are the best. I will order it tomorrow, thanks so much! Roosevelt.

No problem. Let us know how things turn out for you.

Joe

I sure will, thank you!

I ordered the part today, will have in shortly. Thanks.

Hello,

On cool mornings when I began to drive, the brake pedal is hard and won't go down. I have to pump it to get brakes. Only happens in the A.M. Could be brake booster?

I asked about this previously and the mechanic could not duplicate the problem. One of the mechanics here was very helpful to recommend changing the power brake check valve. I have it, not installed yet.

Any other suggestions? I appreciate your help. Roosevelt.

Hello,

Hard brake pedal typically means a vacuum issue for the brake booster. It could due to a sticking check valve for the booster, especially when it's cold.
So yes, change the check valve and also make sure the hose does not have any cracks or leaks.

Keep in mind that this issue could also be due to an internal malfunction of the brake booster.

Let me know how it turns out.
Thank you.

Thank you very much for your reply. I'll do that and let you know. Roosevelt.

That sounds good.

Hello, just wanted you to know it was the Brake Booster Check valve that was the problem on the vehicle. After keeping the vehicle overnight, my mechanic was able to duplicate the problem and replaced the part.

Thank you very much for your help on this repair.

Roosevelt.

Hi,

Thank you for the update. I know it will help others in the future.

Take care of yourself and feel free to come back anytime in the future.

Joe

Thank you!