Brake Booster: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 Ford Pickup. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The power brake actuation system consists of the following components:

Brake booster
Brake booster check valve
Brake booster vacuum sensor
Brake booster vacuum supply hose
Brake booster vacuum pump (3.5L engine only)

The brake booster uses engine vacuum from the intake manifold to create a partial vacuum inside the vacuum booster on both sides of the diaphragm. When the brake pedal is pressed, the booster rod opens a valve, allowing air to enter the booster on one side of the diaphragm while sealing off the opposite side. This increases pressure on that side of the diaphragm so that it helps push the rod, which in turn pushes the piston in the master cylinder. As the brake pedal is released, the valve seals off the outside air supply while opening the vacuum valve. This restores vacuum to both sides of the diaphragm, allowing everything to return to its original position. The ABS module uses the signals produced by the vacuum sensor to verify the vacuum is maintained in the brake booster.