What Causes the Brake Pedal to Be Hard to Press When Starting the Engine?
2 Answers
Introduction to the reasons why the brake pedal is hard to press when starting the engine: Pressing the brake before shutting off the engine: This is related to pressing the brake before shutting off the engine. The car's braking system operates at its maximum efficiency when the engine is running, and the brake booster is the key component that amplifies the force applied to the pedal. In such cases, simply restart the engine and try pressing the brake pedal firmly again. Once the engine is running, the brake booster will resume functioning, and the brake pedal will return to normal. Brake booster air leakage or malfunction: If you did not press the brake pedal after the car was turned off, or if you notice the brake pedal is hard to press while driving, it is likely due to a malfunction in the brake booster. This could be caused by a vacuum tube leak or blockage in the brake booster. It is advisable to take the car to a repair shop for inspection. If this issue occurs while driving, do not panic. The first priority is to slow down and stop the vehicle. You can try pressing the pedal multiple times to see if braking can be restored. Applying more force usually allows some braking power to be applied.
I find it quite common to experience difficulty pressing the brake pedal when starting the car. As an ordinary car owner, I've encountered this situation multiple times. The main reason is usually an issue with the vacuum booster system. The brake booster relies on vacuum generated by the engine to function - if there's insufficient vacuum during startup, the booster fails and the pedal becomes stiff. Other possible causes include vacuum hose leaks, booster pump failure, or a clogged check valve. This can affect braking performance, potentially causing parking difficulties or acceleration risks. I remember when I checked mine once, I found cracked aging hoses - replacing them solved the problem. My advice: don't delay repairs. Always ensure safety before driving, especially during cold winter starts when this occurs more frequently. It's wise to have it inspected at a repair shop promptly.
