Power brake assist

An NHTSA Engineering Analysis into Buick vehicles. Closed 24 July 1987.

Investigation
EA85046
Type
Engineering Analysis
Opened
30 August 1985
Closed
24 July 1987

What NHTSA investigated

Summary of information from manufacturer: in analyzing this matter gmidentified three primary sources for the complaints.the first involvesa gradual deterioration in performance of belt driven vacuum pumps.ac-cording to GM, vehicles equipped with vacuum pumps are also equipped witha low vacuum warning light, which is illuminated when booster vacuumfalls below 10 in. Hg.this signals the driver that maintenance is need-ed.the second source of complaints was traced to a quality control prob-lem associated with one of the brake booster diaphragm suppliers. Use ofparts from this supplier was discontinued in september 1984.THE thirdcomplaint source identified by GM is the low vacuum warning light in 1982MODELS. According to GM, the light indicated low vacuum when there was noproblem or a leak in the switch resulted in reduced vacuum and illumina-tion of the light.this was also traced to a GM supplier that was dis-continued in 1982.GM issued field service information covering switchreplacement in late 1982.ANALYSIS: GM has identified specific vehicle components responsible forreduced power brake vacuum assist among the subject vehicles.the numberand nature of the odi and GM complaints received along with the allegedaccidents reported indicate a potential vehicle safety problem.status:the final report concerning the owner survey from theautomobile club of southern california was received on 6/10/87.===

Vehicles covered

MakeModelModel years
BuickCENTURY1982–1984
ChevroletCELEBRITY1982–1984
OldsmobileCIERA1982–1984
Pontiac60001982–1984

Source

From NHTSA’s investigation file, rebuilt daily. To report a problem with your own vehicle, go to nhtsa.gov/report-a-safety-problem. All open investigations.