1997 Civic Handbrake

[lambada]

My '97 civic has front and rear disc brakes. The handbreak works well on hills when the car is idle but when I pull it up while driving, the car doesn't slow down at all. Is this normal? I know that the handbrake isn't meant to be used while driving but I do resort to it in emergencies.

 

[killer_siller]

i've yet to find a civic (in the 4 that i've owned) that had a strong handbrake. even my FA5 had a weaksauce handbrake.

my gt-four on the other hand...

 

[guitar_adam2000]

yeah i posted a thread on here a while ago with the same concerns. I too have front and rear discs and compared to any other car i've owned with drum brakes, the handbrake is appalling. I've tried changing the pads, the discs, tightening the cable, adjusting the pistons, bleeding and flushing the brake fluid - but nothing has improved. my cars only done 70 odd thousand miles and is in good condition. i find it so frustrating. although unlike you, my handbrake sucks on hills as well!