[bonus12]

when i push in the brake pedal as far as it goes, i can hear something that sounds like leaking air. i know this doesnt make sense, but seomeone suggested that it might be fluid leaking. i checked my brake fluid, and it is fine. could it be leaking within the system?

also, my brakes are not good, and are due for a checkup, but they don't squeak, or chirp, when i brake.

and ideas about the leaking air sound?

Note: it is not very loud; it can only be heard when ambient noise is low (no music, stopped car, etc).

thanks in advance

 

[icarusdown]

that'd be you brake booster.
when the brakes are applied the booster equalizes pressure through a vent inside the cabin at the pedal pushrod. There's supposed to be a little foam 'muffler' in the vent. I think they deteriorate.

perfect little animation to show you

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/power-brake2.htm

 

[areskzc]

the booster may have a leak, check vacuum lines also!

 

[bonus12]

that'd be you brake booster.
when the brakes are applied the booster equalizes pressure through a vent inside the cabin at the pedal pushrod. There's supposed to be a little foam 'muffler' in the vent. I think they deteriorate.

i think it is the brake booster, now that you mention it. would a failing brake booster cause the brakes to be worse? just making sure...

 

[asshat]

i think it is the brake booster, now that you mention it. would a failing brake booster cause the brakes to be worse? just making sure...

yes

 

[moz_21]

i think it is the brake booster, now that you mention it. would a failing brake booster cause the brakes to be worse? just making sure...

Yes and no. You won't have the 'assist' that the booster provides, but you will still have the same braking power (just have to press harder).

 

[icarusdown]

if it only makes the sound when you push the brake pedal, then it's working as designed. It's just old and making noise.

if the booster has gone bad then you would not have power assist and/or your engine would have a large vaccum leak. either of which are obvious.

watch the animation I posted.

 

[93reddelsol]

if it only makes the sound when you push the brake pedal, then it's working as designed. It's just old and making noise.

if the booster has gone bad then you would not have power assist and/or your engine would have a large vaccum leak. either of which are obvious.

watch the animation I posted.

The animation was to funny, lots of penetration.:TU:

 

[green_hornet_96]

If you want to really hear a power booster, test drive any 5-yr-old or older ford truck. Push that pedal down and all you hear is PSSSSSHHHHHHH.

Apparently they don't think it's worth their while to quiet it down, or the foam just breaks down real quick.