Prepare for the Automotive Service Technician Period 1 exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

What are the two most common types of brake boosters in use today?

Brake boost is about multiplying pedal effort using assisted pressure. The most common methods in today’s vehicles are vacuum-assisted boosters and hydraulic boosters. Vacuum boosters use the engine’s intake manifold vacuum to move a diaphragm and provide extra force as you push the pedal; this works well because most engines generate good vacuum at idle or light load. Hydraulic boosters (often called hydroboost) rely on high-pressure hydraulic fluid, typically from the power steering pump, to push the booster piston and provide assistance, which is especially helpful when vacuum is low or unavailable. Electric boosters are used on some newer cars, but vacuum and hydraulic remain the most widespread, making them the best answer.

Brake boost is about multiplying pedal effort using assisted pressure. The most common methods in today’s vehicles are vacuum-assisted boosters and hydraulic boosters. Vacuum boosters use the engine’s intake manifold vacuum to move a diaphragm and provide extra force as you push the pedal; this works well because most engines generate good vacuum at idle or light load. Hydraulic boosters (often called hydroboost) rely on high-pressure hydraulic fluid, typically from the power steering pump, to push the booster piston and provide assistance, which is especially helpful when vacuum is low or unavailable. Electric boosters are used on some newer cars, but vacuum and hydraulic remain the most widespread, making them the best answer.