my Honda Accord Eleventh Generation (2023-present) has a hard brake pedal what could be the problem

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is off.
• Wear safety goggles and gloves.

2. Brake Fluid Inspection

• Open the hood and locate the master cylinder.
• Remove the cap and check the brake fluid level; top off with the recommended brake fluid (DOT 3 or DOT 4).
• Inspect brake fluid for contamination (muddy appearance indicates a problem).

3. Brake Booster Inspection

• Locate the brake booster and vacuum lines.
• Check for cracks, loose connections, or disconnections in the vacuum lines.
• Operate the brake pedal: if it remains hard after starting the engine, the booster may be faulty.

4. Master Cylinder Replacement (if necessary)

• If the master cylinder is found to be defective, follow these steps:
  1. Disconnect Brake Lines: Use a line wrench to disconnect brake lines from the master cylinder.
  2. Unbolt Master Cylinder: Remove the mounting bolts securing the master cylinder to the brake booster.
  3. Replace Master Cylinder: Install the new master cylinder and torque the mounting bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 15-20 lb-ft).
  4. Reconnect Brake Lines: Securely reconnect the brake lines, ensuring there are no cross-threads.

5. Brake Booster Replacement (if necessary)

• If the brake booster is defective, follow these steps:
  1. Disconnect Battery: Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
  2. Remove Brake Pedal Assembly: Detach the brake pedal from the booster.
  3. Unbolt Brake Booster: Remove the mounting bolts that hold the brake booster to the firewall.
  4. Install New Brake Booster: Position the new brake booster and tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
  5. Reattach Brake Pedal Assembly: Reconnect the brake pedal to the new booster.