I have a 2009 Honda Civic Coupe EX (automatic transmission, 4 cylinder) with 111K miles so far. Never had accidents.
I have noticed that it is getting harder and harder to break to bring the car to a full stop. Even if I step on the break all the way down to the floor, the car would still move a little bit before it completely stop. If I step on the break to 50% down, it barely feels like slowing down if at all. I changed the break pads regularly, examined the break fluids (no leak), and even asked a few local car mechanics to examine the car and they told me that they couldn't find any issue with the break.
Is it common for a 12-year old car's break to function like this? Or is there something else wrong with the break? I am asking this because I recently got a new Toyota Corolla and the break is VERY sensitive compared with my old Honda Civic, which makes me wonder if my Civic has break problems. Thank you for your help.
Check the brake rotors. They can glaze over and become as shiny as chrome.
Likewise, the brake pads can become too smooth.
The combination reduces friction and extends stopping distance.
Thanks. I had a mechanic checked the brake rotors and pads and he said they were fine.
Start your car and apply moderate brake pressure. If the pedal slowly sinks down to the floor then the master cylinder should be replaced.
Otherwise, it may just be poorly designed pads that weaken with age. They may look good, but just not have the ability to grab.
Check for an internal leak in the BRAKE booster. A sinking pedal means fluid is getting past the seals.
Thanks. Will check it.