[bobthecabbage]

Mine is a bit like that, very similar in fact but I'm used to it. All of my brake callipers have been replaced so its not that.

It is worth checking the pistons can move freely and the slide pins aren't binding/seized. A hole in the boot protecting these can lead to it failing fairly quickly.

To maintain/improve braking I find it useful to occassionally activate the ABS by finding a bit of wet muddy road/grass/gravel/ice. Be careful, don't crash, use private land etc and any other caveats you can think of.

Also I find it helps to brake firmly whilst going down a steep hill a few times to help adjust up the rear brakes and give an improved handbrake.

I still don't know what causes the firm pedal and the notch that you sometimes have to push through to get adequate braking. I think some of it is due to the ABS setup.