What to Do If Brakes Fail While Driving?

When you’re driving, there’s nothing more frightening than realizing your brakes aren’t working properly. Brake system failure can happen unexpectedly, and knowing what to do can be the difference between a minor scare and a major accident. If you experience brake failure while driving, stay calm and focus on controlling the car. 

What should you do if your brakes fail? First, try pumping the brake pedal quickly. This might help build up pressure if there’s a fluid leak. If that doesn’t work, shift to a lower gear to slow down the car using engine braking. 

Next, gently apply the emergency brake (handbrake) to help stop the car. Make sure to do this gradually to avoid locking the wheels.

Look for a safe place to pull over, like the side of the road or an empty parking lot. Avoid sharp turns or sudden movements. Once you stop, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. Remember, regular brake maintenance is important to prevent brake system failure. Keep your brakes in good condition to stay safe on the road.

Don’t attempt to fix the brake system failure yourself—call for roadside assistance or a tow truck. For reliable brake system repair, contact Biswas Automobile for expert service and fast assistance.

What Causes Brake System Failure?

Brake system failure can happen for many reasons. It’s crucial to know its causes to avoid it. The most common reasons include

• Worn Brake Pads: Over time, brake pads wear down. If this happens, your car’s braking power goes down. It can lead to brake failure while you drive.
• Low Brake Fluid: Brake fluid is key. It transfers the force from your foot on the brake pedal to the brake pads. Low brake fluid or a leak can make brakes fail.
• Overheating: When brakes overheat, they don’t work right. And can cause a brake system failure.
• Faulty Brake Lines: If there’s a leak in the brake lines, brake fluid can escape, reducing pressure in the system. Brake failure can happen.
• Brake Hold System Issues: If the brake hold system fails, it can cause braking problems. If the brake hold system doesn’t work correctly, you could experience problems when slowing or stopping the vehicle.

If your brakes fail while driving, stay calm. Pump the brake pedal or use the emergency brake. Regular brake repair and maintenance are essential to avoid brake system failure. For brake system repair, get help from pros like Biswas Automobile. Keeps your car safe on the road.

Signs of Brake Problems Before They Fail

• A Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal: If your brake pedal feels soft or spongy when you press it, it could mean your brake fluid is low. 
• Grinding or Squealing Sounds when braking can indicate worn-out brake pads. 
• If your car pulls to one side or vibrates while braking, it could mean uneven brake wear or a problem with the brake system.
• If your brake fluid is low, it can cause poor braking performance.

It’s important to never ignore these signs. If you notice any of them, get your brakes checked immediately to avoid brake system failure.

How to Handle Brake Failure While Driving ?

If your brakes fail, it can be scary; you should stay calm if you experience brake failure while driving. Panicking can make the situation worse. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if your brakes fail:

• Pump the Brake Pedal

Try pumping the pedal several times if your brakes feel soft or unresponsive. If there’s a brake fluid issue, it helps restore pressure to the car’s hydraulic brakes. It might give you enough time to slow down.

• Shift to Lower Gears

Next, shift your car to a lower gear. Shifting to lower gears allows you to use engine braking to slow down your car without using the brake system. It is beneficial if your car is a manual or has a manual shift option.

• Use the Emergency Brake

If your car is still moving too fast, gently pull the emergency brake (handbrake). Be careful not to pull it too hard, as this can cause the wheels to lock up. Gradually pulling the handbrake will help slow you down in a controlled way.

• Look for a Safe Place to Pull Over

While slowing down, keep your eyes on the road for a safe place to pull over. Aim for an empty parking lot or the shoulder of the road. Avoid making sharp turns or sudden lane changes, as that could cause you to lose control of the car.

• Turn on Your Hazard Lights

Once you’ve stopped the car safely, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that you’re in trouble. It keeps you visible and prevents accidents.

• Call for Help

If you’re unsure how to handle the brake system failure or can’t solve the problem yourself, call for roadside assistance or a tow truck. Don’t attempt to fix the brakes yourself unless you’re experienced. A professional brake system repair service is the safest choice.

• Prevent Future Brake Failure

To avoid facing brake failure while driving in the future, make sure to check your brakes regularly. Ask a professional mechanic to inspect your brake system every 10,000 to 15,000 miles and replace worn-out parts, like brake pads, before they fail.

Biswas Automobile is here to help with brake repair service. Don’t wait for brake failure to catch you off guard—contact us today for a complete brake inspection to keep you safe on the road.

Preventing Brake Failure in the Future

Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent brake system failure. Inspecting your brakes every 10,000 to 15,000 miles or sooner if you notice any issues is essential. A pro will check your brake pads, fluid levels, and other parts. They’ll make sure everything works well. Always keep an eye on your brake fluid. If it’s low, refill it with the correct fluid for your car. If the fluid looks dirty or murky, it’s time to replace it.

Another key point is to drive responsibly. Avoid hard braking, especially in city traffic. Keep a safe distance from the car ahead. Anticipate stops early to ease the strain on your brakes. If you hear squeaks or feel vibrations when pressing the brake pedal, it might be time to replace your brake pads. Worn-out pads can lead to more serious problems and reduce your braking power.

If you experience brake failure while driving, stay calm. Shift to a lower gear, use the emergency brake slowly, and steer safely to a stop. Knowing what to do if brakes fail while driving can save lives. Don’t wait for trouble. Schedule a brake system repair today. 

Conclusion

Experiencing brake system failure while driving can be terrifying, but knowing what to do can help you stay safe. Remember to stay calm, use your emergency brake, and steer to safety. Regular brake maintenance is crucial in preventing such situations, so make sure to keep an eye on your car’s brake system. If you need professional help, contact Biswas Automobile for trusted brake system repair.