2017 Chevy Colorado Brake Vacuum Pump
About this episode
A 2017 Chevy Colorado faced a critical brake issue when the owner experienced a sudden loss of braking power. The diagnosis revealed a failed brake vacuum pump, which is responsible for providing the necessary vacuum to the power brake booster. The discussion highlights the unusual nature of this failure, including the need for extensive repairs due to a cracked housing. The episode also touches on the engineering choices behind using a separate vacuum pump instead of relying on engine vacuum, and the implications for other Chevy models.
Chevrolet Colorado
"So today's guest is a 2017 Colorado. This is a Dodge, Dodge Colorado. Chevy Colorado. Chevy Colorado. Sorry. Apologies Chevy."
The Chevrolet Colorado is a type of truck that is smaller than full-size pickups. The 2017 version is popular for its ability to carry heavy loads and handle different terrains.
The Chevrolet Colorado is a midsize pickup truck known for its versatility and capability. The 2017 model offers various engine options and features suitable for both work and everyday use.
brakes
"The owner of this vehicle happened to be out driving near our shop and hit the brakes and all of a sudden they didn't work very well."
Brakes are what help a car slow down or stop when you press the pedal. If they don't work properly, it can be dangerous to drive.
Brakes are critical components of a vehicle that allow it to slow down or stop. They work by applying friction to the wheels, which can wear out over time and require maintenance.
brake vacuum pump
"...there was no power brake and we determined the brake vacuum pump, which is located on the back of the engine had failed. It wasn't providing any vacuum to the power brake booster."
A brake vacuum pump helps your car's brakes work more easily. If it breaks, you have to push the brake pedal much harder to stop the car, which can be dangerous.
The brake vacuum pump is a component that generates vacuum pressure to assist in the operation of power brakes. When it fails, it can lead to a loss of braking assistance, making it difficult to stop the vehicle safely.
engine vacuum
"...this is not a diesel. It's a gasoline engine. There's a lot of vacuum created in the intake"
Engine vacuum is the pressure difference created when your car's engine is running. It helps many parts of the car work better, like the brakes, by providing the necessary force to assist in stopping.
Engine vacuum is the negative pressure created in the intake manifold of an engine when it is running. This vacuum is used in various systems, including power brakes, to assist in their operation.
camshaft
"...driven by the back of the camshaft. And as the camshaft rotates, it drives the vacuum pump."
The camshaft is a part of the engine that helps open and close the valves, which lets air and fuel in and exhaust out. It's important for how well the engine runs.
The camshaft is a crucial component in an engine that controls the opening and closing of the engine's valves. It rotates to allow air and fuel into the cylinders and exhaust gases out, playing a key role in engine performance.
power brake booster
"...the pump turns, it generates vacuum and that provides you power brakes. So what looks different here?"
The power brake booster helps you stop your car more easily by using vacuum pressure. It makes pressing the brake pedal less tiring, especially in larger vehicles.
The power brake booster is a component that uses vacuum pressure to assist the driver in applying the brakes, making it easier to stop the vehicle. It enhances braking efficiency and reduces the effort needed on the brake pedal.
European cars
"...we've replaced a lot of vacuum pumps on cars, mostly European, because they leak oil."
European cars are vehicles made by manufacturers from Europe. They sometimes have unique parts that can fail more often than those in cars from other regions.
European cars often have different engineering standards and components compared to American or Asian vehicles. They may use specific parts like vacuum pumps that can be more prone to certain failures.
emergency braking situation
"So it was a pretty catastrophic failure and would have been even worse had the person been in an emergency braking situation."
An emergency braking situation is when a driver has to stop the car quickly to avoid hitting something. This can be very stressful for the car's parts.
An emergency braking situation occurs when a driver must suddenly apply the brakes to avoid a collision or hazard. This can put additional stress on the vehicle's braking system and other components.
catastrophic failure
"So it was a pretty catastrophic failure and would have been even worse had the person been in an emergency braking situation."
A catastrophic failure is when something breaks in a really bad way, causing a lot of damage. In cars, this can mean the engine stops working completely.
A catastrophic failure refers to a sudden and complete breakdown of a component, often leading to significant damage and requiring extensive repairs. In automotive contexts, this can mean total engine failure or critical part malfunction.
valve cover
"We had to remove the valve cover again, another ordeal and more expensive parts and labor to take everything apart. But it was really important to get the chunks of metal out so we could actually put the pump back in..."
The valve cover is like a lid for the engine that keeps important parts safe and helps keep oil inside. It's important for the engine to work properly.
The valve cover is a component that sits on top of the engine's cylinder head, protecting the valves and other internal parts. It also houses the valve train and is essential for maintaining proper engine function.
vacuum hose
"Had to just add a vacuum hose to the intake manifold. But I guess the engineering department and their wisdom chose to make it more complicated."
A vacuum hose helps move air and pressure in the engine. If it gets damaged or disconnected, it can cause engine problems.
A vacuum hose is a tube that carries vacuum pressure within an engine. It is essential for various engine functions, including the operation of the brake booster and other components that rely on vacuum pressure.
2.5 liter engine
"Four cylinder, 2.5 liter. And how common is this engine among Chevy products?"
A 2.5 liter engine is a way to measure how big the engine is. Bigger engines usually have more power, but they can also use more fuel.
A 2.5 liter engine refers to the engine's displacement, which is the total volume of all the cylinders in the engine. This measurement can give an idea of the engine's power and efficiency.
Pollock Automotive
"If you're looking for service for your Colorado Chevy products in Vancouver, BC, the guys to see are Pollock Automotive."
Pollock Automotive is a place in Vancouver where you can take your car for repairs and maintenance.
Pollock Automotive is an auto repair service located in Vancouver, BC, known for providing reliable vehicle maintenance and repair services.
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