What is the reason why the brake of Kia K3 cannot be pressed down?
3 Answers
The reason why the brake of Kia K3 cannot be pressed down is that the brake can only be pressed when the car is started, not because there is a problem with the car's braking system. The working system of the car's braking is a hydraulic system, and the brake pads will press tightly against the brake disc, making it impossible to press down without sufficient force. The car's brake pedal is located under the steering wheel. Pressing the brake pedal causes the brake linkage to be pressurized and transmitted to the brake pads on the brake drum, which then clamps the brake disc, slowing down or stopping the car. The Kia K3 has a length, width, and height of 4660mm, 1780mm, and 1450mm respectively, with a wheelbase of 2700mm. The body type is a 4-door, 5-seater sedan, and the transmission is a CVT (simulating 8 gears).
I've been driving this Kia K3 for quite a few years, and the other day when the brakes wouldn't budge, it really freaked me out. After checking around, the most common issue is a problem with the vacuum booster. This thing uses engine vacuum to help you save effort when braking. If it's broken or leaking air, the pedal becomes super heavy to press. Another possible cause could be low brake fluid or air getting into the lines. If the fluid level is low, the hydraulic pressure won't build up properly. I've encountered this several times. Normally when driving, you should be careful not to pump the brakes repeatedly after turning off the engine, or you'll deplete the vacuum reserve. Check the brake fluid reservoir regularly to keep it full, and don't slack off on fluid changes. Safety first! If this problem occurs, don't force the car to keep moving—pull over and inspect it. It would be disastrous if the brakes failed on the highway. One time I went to the repair shop and spent a few hundred to replace the booster pump, which fixed it. But prevention is cheaper than repairs—check the rubber components under the chassis monthly for any cracks.
When tinkering with the Kia K3's brake system, I often get itchy hands. If the pedal feels stiff, don't panic—from a DIY perspective, there are two main causes. The most common issue is a faulty vacuum booster pump. Listen to the engine and check the booster hose for leaks—it's just a short plastic tube that you can replace yourself. The second possibility is a brake fluid leak or clogged lines. If the reservoir is empty, simply top it up and bleed the system. The tools for this are cheap and easily available online for just a few bucks. I usually start the engine and pump the pedal a few times—if it stays stiff, troubleshoot before rushing to spend on repairs. For safety, always ensure the brakes work properly before driving; otherwise, use the parking brake to pull over. A money-saving tip is to avoid excessive modifications and stick with the factory brake components—it can save you a lot.
