BRB-296 | Genuine Ford® Power Brake Booster Assembly

1. Reduce Pedal Effort

The booster multiplies the force from your foot, so you don’t need to press the brake pedal hard to stop the vehicle.
Without it, braking would feel very stiff and require much more strength.

2. Improve Braking Safety

By increasing braking force, the booster helps achieve:

• Shorter stopping distances

• Quicker brake response

• Better control during emergency stops

3. Increase Braking Power

The booster ensures the master cylinder receives enough force to create proper hydraulic pressure for the brake calipers and wheel cylinders.

4. Provide Smooth, Controlled Braking

Helps prevent jerky or uneven braking by delivering steady assisted pressure.

5. Support Heavier Vehicles

Larger vehicles—trucks, vans, SUVs—require higher brake pressure.
The booster allows these vehicles to stop efficiently without excessive driver effort.

1. Hard Brake Pedal

• The brake pedal becomes very stiff and difficult to press.

• This is the most common symptom—because the booster is no longer providing assist.

2. Longer Stopping Distance

• Vehicle takes more effort and more distance to stop.

• Loss of brake assist makes braking weaker.

3. Hissing Noise When Pressing the Brake

• A vacuum leak inside the booster can cause a hissing or air-escaping sound when the brake pedal is pressed.

4. Engine Runs Rough or Stalls During Braking

• A vacuum leak in the booster can affect engine vacuum, causing:

  • Rough idle

  • Engine stall

  • RPM fluctuation

5. Brake Pedal Sinks or Feels Spongy

• A failing booster diaphragm can cause the pedal to slowly sink when applying pressure.

6. Increased Pedal Travel

• You need to press the brake pedal further down than normal to get the same stopping power.

7. Brake Warning Light On

• Some vehicles may trigger a brake warning or ABS alert if assist pressure is low.

8. Poor Brake Response

• Brakes feel delayed, weak, or inconsistent.