Can braking hard damage something?

I recently had to slam on my brakes to avoid an accident.

Although I hit nothing, it seems like the car is not driving the same.

I get the sense the front wheels are almost braking slightly when I drive -- even when I'm not braking at the time I feel this sensation.

Is this just in my head or can braking hard cause damage to the body, brakes, tires, etc.

The car is new with only 2k miles and is 2008 Honda Civic 4-door LX.

crs24, PA

Visitor Comment

Braking hard will obviously apply heavy forces to suspension, wheels, or tires. It also tests the strength of chassis components and their effective solidity and mounting to their respective components.

It is possible that some component was forced into misalignment or bent during the hard stop.

Ask a competent mechanic at a Honda dealer to ride in the car while you demonstrate the feel and / or sound that you perceive.

Arthur H., MO