If you notice that your car’s brake pedal feels stiff when you push it, you may think there’s something wrong with the brake pedal itself. However, your vehicle’s brake pedal is likely not the issue here. While several factors can cause a stiff brake pedal, there’s some basic troubleshooting you can do to narrow down the potential cause.
Why is my brake pedal so stiff?
A stiff brake pedal is more than an annoyance; it can be dangerous. If your brake pedal is hard to depress, your ability to stop your car will be reduced. Therefore, it’s essential to get to the bottom of this issue. While several issues can cause brake pedal stiffness, the brake booster is a likely culprit.
What is a brake booster?
The brake booster is a device that increases the force that you apply to the brake pedal. Cars with hydraulic brake systems have brake boosters because most drivers would have difficulty stopping their vehicles without them. The brake booster in many vehicles is connected directly to the engine manifold via a vacuum hose. The booster utilizes the vacuum effect of the engine to draw air out of the braking system, which increases the efficiency of the braking system, making the brakes much easier to use.
How do I know if my brake booster is bad?
If you feel like you have to stand on top of your brake pedal to stop your car, this is a good sign that your brake booster may be malfunctioning. However, there is a simple test to determine if the brake booster is at fault. With your vehicle’s engine off, pump the brakes until the pedal gets so stiff you can barely move it anymore. Once you have done this, start your car’s engine while maintaining pressure on the brake pedal. The brake pedal should sink to the floor if the booster works correctly. If your brake pedal stays firm, the booster has a problem.
If you have a stiff brake pedal, it’s essential to resolve this issue as soon as possible because the reduced braking ability is dangerous. While several factors can cause a stiff brake pedal, a bad brake booster is one of the most common. Brake booster repair is a job most people want to leave to a professional. However, if you are an experienced DIY mechanic, this is a job that you can manage. Otherwise, see your car care specialist to get your brake booster issues resolved and your car back on the road.