a soft pedal could be the result of worn down linings, like the rear brakes needing adjustment, leaking hydraulic cylinders....
brake switch located on the top of the brake pedal
Check the switch adjustment on the brake pedal arm.
out of brake fluid?
More than likely it is the brake light switch that is attached to the brake pedal.
Pushing on the brake pedal
Typically, that comes from having air in the lines.
Check the bulbs, fuse & brake light switch on the pedal.
check your fuse and your brake light switch on your brake pedal lever.
BAD BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH AT TOP OF BRAKE PEDAL
Check the brake switch located on your brake pedal shaft. May have to be replaced.
A short in the brake light circuit.
It would be the rubber pad that sits on your brake pedal. Unless they were referring to brake pads, which are the pads which enables your vehicle to stop by pressing the brake pedal.