Causes of hard pedal braking?

1. Air in the brake lines: Air can get trapped in the brake lines, causing a spongy or hard pedal feel. This can happen if the brake system is not properly bled after maintenance or if there is a leak in the system.

2. Brake fluid contamination: Contaminated brake fluid can cause the brake system to malfunction, leading to a hard pedal feel. Contaminants such as water, dirt, or debris can degrade the performance of the brake fluid and affect the braking system.

3. Brake caliper issues: Problems with the brake calipers, such as sticking or seized calipers, can cause the brakes to feel hard and unresponsive. This can be due to worn or damaged caliper components, lack of lubrication, or corrosion.

4. Brake booster failure: The brake booster is responsible for amplifying the force applied to the brake pedal, making it easier to stop the vehicle. If the brake booster fails, it can result in a hard pedal feel and require more effort to brake.

5. Brake pad or rotor issues: Worn brake pads or rotors can affect the braking performance and cause the pedal to feel hard. If the brake pads are worn down or the rotors are warped, it can lead to reduced braking power and a stiff pedal feel.

6. ABS system malfunction: A malfunctioning anti-lock braking system (ABS) can cause the brakes to feel hard and unresponsive. Issues with the ABS sensors, control module, or hydraulic unit can affect the braking performance and result in a hard pedal feel.