1994 Honda Civic Owner's Manual - Page 100

The Braking System All Civics are equipped with front disc brakes. The brakes on the rear wheels may be disc or drum, depending on the model. The braking system is power assisted to reduce the effort needed on the brake pedal. Put your foot on the brake pedal only when you intend to brake. Resting your foot on the pedal keeps the brakes applied lightly, causing them to build up heat. Heat build up can reduce how well your brakes work. It also keeps your brake lights on all the time, confusing drivers behind you. Constant application of the brakes when going down a long hill builds up heat and reduces their effectiveness. Use the engine to assist the brakes by downshifting to a lower gear and taking your foot off the accelerator pedal. Check your brakes after driving through deep water. Apply the brakes moderately to see if they feel normal. If not, apply them gently and frequently until they do. Since a longer distance is needed to stop with wet brakes, be extra cautious and alert in your driving. Your brakes may sometimes squeal or squeak when you apply them lightly. Do not confuse this with the brake wear indicators. They make a very audible "screeching." Brake Wear Indicators The front disc brakes on all cars have audible brake wear indicators. They are also on the rear brakes of cars with ABS. When the brake pads need replacing, you will hear a distinctive metallic "screeching" sound when you apply the brakes. If you do not have the brake pads replaced, they will begin screeching all the time. Driving