2002 Dodge Neon Possible Booster leak.

MECH43228

MEMBER
2002 DODGE NEON
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
122,025 MILES

I am working on a 2002 Dodge Neon with a 2.0 L engine. I was asked to come and look at a 2002 doge neon with a surging idle and a checked engine light. The code it is throwing is p1299, my scanner says it is a problem with the fuel ratio. After looking on line it says it is a vacuum leak. I started the car and found that the unit had no booster help with the brakes. I am thinking that the brake booster has a leak in it causing the vacuum leak. I was wondering if there is a way to check the booster for leaks before I spend the money to get a new one. Also is it even possible for a booster leaking to cause the problem of a surging idle and misfire?

1 Reply

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

If its leaking it'll suck in air and dilute the A/F mix creating a lean condition.

To check the vacuum booster, pump the brake pedal with the engine off until you've bled off all the vacuum from the unit. Then hold the pedal down and start the engine. You should feel the pedal depress slightly as engine vacuum enters the booster and pulls on the diaphragm. No change? Then check the vacuum hose connection and engine vacuum. If okay, the problem is in the booster and the booster needs to be replaced.