The booster went out -- at least I think that's what happened. I no longer had power brakes. Replaced the booster, and after appx 20 minutes of driving, the car binds up. Removed the vacuum -- the car no longer binds, but no more power brakes.

Replaced the booster (again). Drove it for 20 minutes, car binds up, on the freeway -- no fun.

Basically, what I think is happening is when I push on the brakes, the booster works, but then keeps on working when I lift off the brakes, and therefore the brakes stay on and the car won't move.

Surely two boosters in a row aren't bad...???

Any other suggestions? I did NOT have this problem before replacing the booster. I just didn't have power brakes.

I'm also having difficulty with gas consumption -- I drive 25 miles and use 1/4 of a tank, but I'm not sure that's related.

 

What started this entire problem?
It sounds like the pushrod on the brake pedal arm is out of adjustment.

 

Hondadude, bless your little heart for replying!

What started this whole series of events...my teenage son driving it?

Well, my teenage son was driving it and he tells me the brakes are too hard. So I drive it, and sure enough, no power brakes. So we went through the series of unfortunate events I outlined above.

Between replacing the boosters, we thought it was okay. Son drives it, suddenly not okay and now the gas consumption is mysteriously pitiful. Said son and I towed it to the mechanic this morning.

:::sigh:::

Got off the phone with the mechanic who thinks everything is as good as new. I'm ready to tow it to the auto cemetary....except that we need this car.

>

Thanks again for the reply!