Why does the brake feel harder than before?
3 Answers
Brakes are mechanical braking devices that can slow down the speed of a vehicle, also known as decelerators. There are two main reasons why the brake pedal feels harder than before: 1. Vacuum booster pump leakage or malfunction: If you did not press the brake pedal after the car was turned off, or if you find it difficult to press the brake pedal while driving, it may be caused by a leak or blockage in the vacuum tube of the brake booster pump. 2. Pressing the brake before turning off the engine: The brake booster pump only continuously generates vacuum when the engine is running. When the engine is not running, it relies on the remaining vacuum assistance, which usually disappears after a few presses. However, this phenomenon will return to normal after restarting the engine and is not a malfunction.
Recently I encountered a similar issue where the brake pedal became significantly harder to press. As an experienced driver with years behind the wheel, this is most likely caused by a faulty brake booster - either a leaking diaphragm in the vacuum booster pump or aged/cracked vacuum hoses leading to loss of power assistance, making you feel like stepping on a brick. Brake fluid leakage or insufficient level is another common culprit; low fluid or excessive air bubbles create uneven system pressure resulting in that stiff feeling. I recall a friend's car had this exact problem - nearly failed to brake during a rainy turn, with danger level skyrocketing. Immediate professional inspection of the booster and brake hose connections is strongly advised. For prevention, replacing brake fluid every 20,000 km can effectively reduce such risks.
I've driven quite a few cars, and stiff brakes can be really annoying. At first, they gradually became harder to press, and later it felt like a real effort even when I stomped on them. Most likely, it's an issue with the brake booster system—maybe a damaged vacuum booster pump or a leaking hose, where the engine's vacuum can't assist properly. Alternatively, old brake fluid or air in the system could be affecting pedal feel. You can do a quick check yourself: start the engine and press the brakes a few times—they should soften up a bit if everything's normal. If they're still stiff, check the brake fluid reservoir to see if the level is low or the fluid looks dirty. Don't make the same mistake I did by putting it off for two weeks—my braking distance got longer, and I almost rear-ended someone. Get it fixed promptly; safety should always come first. For car maintenance, remember to check the booster system's seals every six months.
