Braking problems

[cybersamurai]

In the last six months I have had 4 instances where my brakes have failed. It has always occurred early in the morning on days when it is a little cold and rainy. When i depress the brake pedal, I feel resistance and cant push the pedal more than half the way down and the car wont stop. I have to pull the hand brake to get it to stop. The first three times it happened as i was pulling out of my apartment parking lot and I wasnt going very fast so it was no big deal. This morning, however, it happened on the road and I ended up sliding right through an intersection. I took it in to the dealer and they said they dont know what could be causing this. Anyone else having this problem? So far the only other problems I have had are a faulty intake sensor, cracked intake manifold, and some idling problems. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

02 infra red, cold weather pkg, sunroof, audiophile, 12 mos 18k miles

[dalola]

Not to be overly simplistic, but, sounds like wet brakes. Does it only happen when you brake after extended periods of no braking, in wet weather? 4-wheel discs feel a little different in this regard compared to disc/drum. Usually light pressure before anticipating a stop will dry them.
~Dave

[cybersamurai]

Thats what I initially thought, but why would I not be able to push the pedal all the way to the floor?

[LMarx]

Our brake disks do NOT have a "backing plate" that provides some protection from water/dirt etc. which was a custom.

The lack of this metal shield provides for greater air flow to the disk, greater cooling, all good stuff. But, I have noticed that in rain, the brakes are about half gone when first appled on the highway. A real source of concern if driving in the rain and have to do a quick stop.
A wise action is to apply the brake every minute or two to dry. Not something we want to have to do, but a prudent thing. Remember, there is water between the brake pad and the rotor. This turns to steam soon after you push the brake, which keeps the two surfaces apart. PUMP the brakes hard three times should return effective brakes. Pumping allows the heated water/gas to escape.

ALSO, be very careful when applying tire black to the tires. Carelessness can get this lubricant onto the brakes, and the tire tread. It doesn't come off easily.