weak brakes

i have a 99 sl2. auto, 100k miles. my brakes barely work. when i step on it the car takes its time stopping. whats causing this? what should i do to fix it?
thanks

Brakes on a car is more of an urgent matter than the usual post of an engine related issue. If you are not mechanically inclined, take it to an appropriate repair shop. There could be a number of reasons for the symptoms you ask about. It may be that you have broken or opened the hydraulic system and you are loosing fluid or air has entered the system causing a soft pedal and noticeable brake fade. It could be the brake booster or master cylinder located in the engine compartment near the driver's windshield. Certainly, it could be a brake wheel cylinder on one of the rear drums has failed and they are not of notice of repair until you get to this stage.

If you have the ability to repair, start with the amount of brake fluid in the system and then move to the rear wheel/ drums to check for quality of the cylinders there and shoes for that matter. Move forward in the system if the rear checks out well for non-contaimination, parts and adjustment.

In most cases, you are better off not being a crash dummy and leaving it for a shop that can get it off all fours and have at it.

Is this a new problem?
When I 1st got my Saturn (SW1), I was surprised at how weak the brakes were, compared to my previous car. I just got used to it.
Are you pushing REALLY hard on the pedal? Maybe the brake booster has failed.
Does the car pull to 1 side? Maybe 1 caliper has seized
Check the thickness of the pads, they may be worn out, but you should hear a very nasty noise if that's the case.
Any other symptoms?