Chevy Blazer Brake Pedal Makes a Hissing Noise Inside Cab

Reader Question Hi Austin,

I have a 1997 Chevy Blazer with a brake problem. The pedal hisses loudly like air is being released when I apply the brake.
Also, my engine idles rough and wants to stall. I did take it into the corner shop and they say it’s a vacuum brake booster that needs replacing.

My question is if you think it’s the booster or possibly a leaky hose (or both)…what’s causing the hissing sound. This problem came on suddenly, not gradually.

The shop wants to charge me $775 to replace the booster….seems high to me. I priced the part and read that labor is about 1-2 hours for this job. What’s your take on this?

Thanks so much for your help. I love your website…it’s the greatest!

Cynthia in Raleigh NC

Yo Cynthia,

I would probably suspect a faulty brake booster as well. You might see if you can find a rebuilt booster WITHOUT the brake master cylinder…which is easier to install and cheaper. To install the booster without the master cylinder will probably take 2 hours…3 ½ with the cylinder since they will have to bleed the brake system afterwards.

So…call your local auto parts store for the part price, then call around to your mechanic and see how much they want to install YOUR furnished part.

Thanks for the kind words.

Did you get a free copy of my ebooks??

https://www.myhonestmechanic.com/free-ebook-download.html

Blessings,

Austin C. Davis