Nissan Repair: 91 Nissan Stanza, nissan stanza, brake booster

Question
car starts and runs but when brakes are applied engine shuts off (any time you press on the brakes stop signs, stop lights, even in drive way).  what could be the problem. what can i check for? this is my only car and i need to get it going? can the car be hooked up to diagnostic test to show whats going on. don't see any hook up on cars computer.

Answer
Hi Tameka -

First thing I would like you to check is the brake booster and vaccuum lines to it. The brake booster is right behind the master cylinder and operates with engine vaccuum. Ususally when you turn the engine off, you can press the brake pedal a couple times then it becomes very hard to press. If this is not happening, then you probably have a vaccuun leak in that system.

There is only one hose that goes from the engine to the booster. Check that for holes. If not, then it is an internal leak in the booster itself. The way to check that is remove the hose and plug it. If the car runs better and does not die when the brake is depressed, replace the booster.

BTW, sometimes the booster fails because brake fluid is leaking into the unit. When the master is removed, it should be dry behind the mounts. If it is wet with brake fluid, replace the master too. There should be deals on a "loaded" booster, which includes the master.

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin