WHY DOES MY BRAKE PEDAL FEEL STIFF?

December 30, 2022 Sil’s Auto Care Centre

When you press down on your brake pedal, it should be able to move back up without any resistance quickly. But if the pedal feels stiff and challenging to push down, this could indicate a severe issue with your brakes. To understand why your brake pedal might feel stiff, it’s essential to look at the components of your braking system and some common causes of stiffness.

What Makes Up Your Braking System?

Your vehicle’s braking system comprises several components that all work together to allow you to slow and stop safely. This includes the brake lines, wheel cylinders, master cylinders, calipers, rotors, and discs – all essential for properly functioning brakes.

Common Causes of Brake Pedal Stiffness

There are a few critical causes of brake pedal stiffness that could be impacting your vehicle. These include:

Leaks in the braking system: Often, the entire system will be affected if there is an issue with one component of your brakes. This can create a vacuum leak, making it harder to press down on the brake pedal.
Faulty master cylinder: The master cylinder supplies pressure to all four brakes, so if this is faulty, you may have difficulty pressing down on the brake pedal. Your mechanic can inspect the master cylinder to determine if it needs to be replaced.
Worn brake pads: If your brake pads are worn out, they won’t have the exact grip on the rotors and discs. This can cause stiffness in the brake pedal as you press down. To replace the pads, your mechanic must remove them and install new ones.
Air in the braking system: Air can quickly get into the braking system by way of a leak or simply through wear and tear over time. This air creates resistance when you press down on the brake pedal, making it harder to depress than usual.

Having a stiff brake pedal can be dangerous, so it’s essential to get it checked out by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.

Keep Safety in Mind

If you experience any stiffness in the brake pedal, it’s best to have it checked out by an experienced mechanic as soon as possible. Bring your car to Sil’s Complete Auto Care Centre for brake repairs, maintenance, and inspections. Our team of certified mechanics is here to help you stay safe on the road.

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Excellent timely service at a reasonable cost. Pleasant staff easy to deal with. Work completed on-time and at quoted cost.
Jim Guest Mar 3, 2025

Apart from our better-halves and/or best friends, we arguably put our next most trust in our cars. In our case, this is due to no small part in your consistent quality service team work. In the current "world" climate of trust, your well-earned trust is even more remarkable. Thank you Team Sil's Auto Care Centre and keep up the good work.
Thai Yip Mar 3, 2025

A yr ago, I was tired of upselling and poor service by my Dealer and my wife also needed a trusted local mechanic so, based on a neighborhood website and word of mouth, we tried Syl’s Auto for the first time and have been 100% satisfied with the work and value; and, the customer service by the team of Carlo, Susan and Tommy has exceeded all expectations! As a bonus the shuttle service to and from home has been very dependable, efficient and friendly. We highly recommend Syl’s! ❤️
Ron Mustill Mar 3, 2025

I had an unexpected issue with my car yesterday, after driving for a medical appt. from 2.5 hours away. I pulled into the shop driveway with no idea what was going on and cringing at what the repair could cost and would I be stranded here for days. Carlos and Sue, were quick to find a way to fit me in. Carlos test drove my car and then, explained exactly what would need to be done step by step to diagnose and fix the issue. I was out of there with the problem solved and they even gave my car a once over and sent me a report of items that mat need attention in the near future. I left feeling relieved and satisfied 100%. Sils auto is a gem for Mississauga. Honest, caring, and accommodating. Thanks Guys for getting me in/out and back out of the city so promptly.
Cathy Valdstyn Mar 3, 2025

I’m not much of a “car guy” and am always a bit intimidated when my car needs service. Dealt with Susan, who was very helpful and friendly. The problem I had ended up being serious … and was provided very affordable options. They provide a very detailed breakdown of service. I was very impressed I’ll never bring my car anywhere else.
Malcolm Ingram Mar 3, 2025

Excellent customer service & knowledgeable staff! Although they were fully booked, they were still able to quickly diagnose and fix my problem.
Thomas Garron Mar 3, 2025

I found Sil's during a quick Google search for a local shop. On the road, away from home, and having some steering issues with my truck, I needed some quick help. I was extremely lucky to find a shop that was willing get my truck on a hoist and have a quick look. Fortunately it was a quieter day at Sil's, a lull in the storm before tire change season. Tommy and Susan were great in the front office. Very professional, modern setup that says they take this work seriously. They assigned Corey to help have a look. After a test drive and a thorough look while on the hoist Corey give me a rundown of possible causes (it's an old truck, there's always many possibilities). I walked away knowing much more about the condition of my truck and what I should be aware of for the future. Many thinks to Corey for his attention to detail and candor. Much appreciated. Cost of the assessment was very fair, I was given excellent documentation to help my decision making. Sil's isn't exactly convenient for me location wise, but I have to say I'd seriously consider going out of my way so Corey and the team could do the job. Many thanks. David
David Field Mar 3, 2025

I have been driving many years and this is the best place i have taken my car to. Professional, friendly, and detailed in their work. They let me know what needs to be done, what will need to be done, and what was still in good order. Sent me pictures of what they were doing. My car was cleaned on the inside, which was a bonus. Price wise, they were fair... no hidden surprises. I will be going to Sil's Auto Care for all of my car needs. I would rate 10/10.
Luisa Ellis Mar 3, 2025

Exceptional service!! Just what you have always wanted honesty, professionalism, friendly, quality work. The transparency and comfort was nothing that I’d experienced with any auto repair in the past. Thank you Carlo and Team !!!
Neil Hall Feb 2, 2025

Excellent service, best I have ever experienced in vehicle servicing. It used to be just 5 bays, but with the change of location it is much bigger. Thanks for the nice waiting room Carlo!
Keith Lockhart Feb 2, 2025