2003 Honda Civic Owner's Manual - Page 184

The Braking System All Civics are equipped with front disc brakes. The brakes on the rear wheels are drum. A power assist helps 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. Brake Wear Indicators The front disc brakes on all models have audible brake wear indicators. 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. 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.'' Driving 183