Brake System Design; Brake Wear - Honda 1990 Civic Sedan Owner's Manual

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Brake System Design

The diagonally-separated dual
service brake system is designed so
half the system will still provide
braking action if the other half fails.
However, stopping the car with
only half the system will require
more pedal pressure and pedal travel than normal. Also, the distance
required to stop will be longer using only half the brake system. If
the brakes fail suddenly, downshift to a lower gear for increased
engine braking, and pull off the road as soon as possible.
It is dangerous to drive your car with a problem in either the
brake electrical or hydraulic system; have your dealer check
both systems if you suspect brake trouble.
Driving through deep water may affect the brakes.
Check their effectiveness by pressing the brake pedal gently.
If the car does not slow down at the normal rate, continue
gently applying the brakes, while maintaining a safe speed, until
they dry out and normal performance returns.
Do not ride the brakes. In other words, don't put your foot on
the brake pedal unless you intend to brake. This causes
excessive brake wear and can damage, or lead to loss of braking
effectiveness through overheating. Your brake lights may also
confuse drivers behind you.

Brake Wear

Both front and rear brakes should be inspected for wear at the
intervals shown in the maintenance schedule on page
When the brakes require maintenance, use only genuine Honda
replacement parts or their equivalent.
Brakes
70 .
(cont'd)