Author Topic: Brake Pedal Extension. (Read 2317 times)

Allex · « **on:** April 30, 2024, 10:05:29 AM »

Anyone recommend a product or method? My partner hates having her foot hanging in mid air so I guess if I extend it down somehow her heel can rest on the floor when pressing the brake. Jazz 2018 VTEC Auto. Thanks.

ColinB · « **Reply #1 on:** April 30, 2024, 11:35:45 AM »

Quote from: Allex on April 30, 2024, 10:05:29 AM

Anyone recommend a product or method? My partner hates having her foot hanging in mid air so I guess if I extend it down somehow her heel can rest on the floor when pressing the brake. Jazz 2018 VTEC Auto. Thanks.

Is it not possible to adjust the seat and steering wheel positions so that she is comfortable?

Also, I don't understand why her foot should be "... hanging in mid air ...". I don't have an auto, but I always thought that the recommended driving technique is to use the right foot for both accelerator and brake with the left foot flat on the floor all the time. That way the right foot is always on one pedal or the other, and shouldn't be left hanging.

Allex · « **Reply #2 on:** April 30, 2024, 11:38:18 AM »

Good points, I'll check that out with her when we go out next.

embee · « **Reply #3 on:** April 30, 2024, 06:27:58 PM »

There's a footrest at the left for the left foot. Accelerator and brake operated by right foot, just like a manual car.

Allex · « **Reply #4 on:** April 30, 2024, 07:05:20 PM »

Yep, we're looking perhaps to raise the heel from the floor. I'm OK but a shorter foot means hovering.

Lord Voltermore · « **Reply #5 on:** April 30, 2024, 09:03:55 PM »

Accelerator pedals are sometimes low set, or of the 'organ pedal ' type which allows you to steady your foot with the heel on the floor for more precise throttle control. But AFAIK brake pedals are always of the suspended type. Because by resting your heel on the floor you would only be pressing the brake pedal by flexing your ankle, which limits the range of movement and pressure you can exert. You should lift your foot from the floor and press down with the full movement of your leg. OK some people with extra large feet , high heel shoes etc might habitually heel and toe in this way,suffient for power brakes in normal circumstances. But maybe not an emergency stop. I would not recommend trying to replicate it.

The honda brake pedal is at a standard height that should suit all drivers. (except those who might need the car modified by a mobility specialist). The following site gives the specifications and how to adjust the pedal height slightly. I wouldnt recommend trying to change the pedal height in this way just to suit the driver. If you find your pedal height is considerably out of specification I would consult a mechanic, as there may be other reasons.
https://www.hondafitjazz.com/manual/a00/html/00/saa2e00d14300014801mbat10.html

I mean no insult but I also suspect its driver technique. You should use the right foot for both, primarily resting your foot over the throttle , and when you need to brake, lift your leg and immediately move your foot onto the brake pedal. There should be no significant time with your foot hovering in mid air. Any length of time holding the car on the brakes the foot is supported by the brake pedal.
Again no offence but some drivers get into the bad habit of hovering too much around the brakes, and sometimes lightly applying them when its not really necessary. Advanced driving instructors call this 'reassurance braking'.I have tried google search on 'reassurance braking', but got no hits, but you may find a reference to it in some advanced driving tutorials. Its not always easy to know you are doing it and may need positive confidence to break the habit.