What are the reasons for a pickup truck's brakes being hard to press and unresponsive?
2 Answers
This is a normal phenomenon because it is the function of the brake booster. The vacuum booster obtains its vacuum power source from the engine intake pipe and stores it in the vacuum tank. Therefore, after the engine is turned off, pressing the brake pedal a few times will result in this phenomenon. If the vacuum booster is found to be ineffective during use, it should be inspected. Below are methods for maintaining the brakes: (1) Brake pad replacement: The wear condition of the brake pads determines the performance of the brakes. Generally, brake pads should be inspected every 10,000 kilometers and replaced every 30,000 kilometers. (2) Brake fluid replacement: Besides brake pads, brake fluid is also important. The replacement cycle for brake fluid is around 50,000 kilometers, but the specific replacement interval should be adjusted based on the local climate. If the area is particularly humid or rainy, the replacement cycle should be appropriately shortened. (3) Regular brake adjustment: After prolonged use, due to the vehicle's stress distribution, the brakes may pull to one side—sometimes to the left and sometimes to the right. It is essential to promptly visit a repair shop for adjustment. (4) Brake usage: Develop good driving habits and proper brake-pressing techniques. If the area is mountainous or hilly, avoid frequent brake usage due to the terrain and road conditions. Overuse can cause the brake pads to overheat, leading to a loss of braking performance.
Having driven pickup trucks for decades, when encountering a situation where the brake pedal is hard to press, the main cause is usually a problem with the vacuum booster. This component acts like a booster for the braking system, relying on the engine's vacuum to function. Once the seals age or there's an air leak, the assist is lost, and the brake pedal becomes as hard as a rock. Another common issue is insufficient or leaking brake fluid—when the fluid level drops, air can easily enter, causing the hydraulic system to fail, resulting in no response when pressing the pedal. Broken cables or seized brake pads can also make the brakes stiff, especially in older pickups. I must emphasize: if the brake pedal feels hard and unresponsive, don’t hesitate—pull over immediately and inspect. I recommend first checking the vacuum pump hoses for cracks, then examining the brake fluid reservoir level and looking for oil stains near the wheel hubs. This kind of failure directly impacts driving safety and should never be delayed.
