ok, BIG problem...when i step on the brake, it takes ALOT of effort (force) to push the brake pedal down...and even then, it doesn't go down that much AND i can't stop unless i engine brake...i hear a hissing sound coming from inside the cabin, near the brake/gas pedals....what could be wrong? could it be the brake booster? how can i check it without taking it off? help is appreciated...i need my car asap, and its not at home so i don't have access to too much tools

 

Sounds like the brake booster is leaking. Does your engine run diferent since you noticed this.

 

engine idles up and down when i'm in neutral

 

bump for more opinions

 

Try bleeding your brakes, mine were really squissy when i bought it so i bleeded all the air out and they felt a lot better.

 

my brakes arent squishy, they're just hard to press...

 

its a booster problem, you hear hissing and the engine idles funny. check for vaccum leaks.

 

booster leaking

 

Yeah its the booster, if the motor revs up and down and you hear a hissing sound. Im Willing to bet its the booster. Just get another one i dont think there real expensive but it will be fun to replace. Good luck.