How to Deal with Brake Failure in an Automatic Transmission Car?
4 Answers
In the event of brake failure in an automatic transmission car, the primary solution is to remain calm, release the accelerator to reduce speed, firmly hold the steering wheel, and turn on the hazard warning lights (flashers). Check the rearview mirrors to observe traffic behind you, and if conditions permit, slowly change lanes to the far-right lane to prepare for an emergency stop. Restoring Braking Power: The driver can attempt to pump the brakes several times, which may help build pressure in the brake system if there is air in the brake lines, potentially restoring some braking power. Minimizing Damage: Use friction from the side of the car against guardrails or other objects to bring the vehicle to a stop, or use any available collidable objects to halt the vehicle, achieving the goal of forced stopping to escape danger and minimize accident damage as much as possible.
I've been driving for almost twenty years, and I've actually experienced automatic transmission brake failure. First, grip the steering wheel tightly and don't steer wildly! Then, quickly and deeply press the brake pedal four or five times in succession—sometimes the hydraulic system can rebuild pressure. If that still doesn't work, immediately downshift to use engine braking, shifting directly from D to L or manual mode to lower gears. Apply the handbrake slowly by pulling it up gradually—never yank it all at once, or the rear wheels will lock up and cause a skid. If you still can't stop, steer toward the roadside guardrail and use the side of the car to scrape and slow down—better than a rear-end collision. Finally, remember to turn on the hazard lights to alert vehicles behind you. Regular maintenance should include checking the brake fluid's water content—replace it if it exceeds 3%.
Last week on the way to drop off my child at school, suddenly pressing the brake felt like stepping on cotton—it scared me so much my hair stood on end! I immediately turned on the hazard lights and forcefully shifted the gear lever from D to N. The engine revved up suddenly, and the sound was terrifying, but the car did slow down gradually. Then I tried pulling the auto-hold button of the electronic parking brake, and the car jerked sharply but didn’t lose control. Later, the mechanic said the brake master cylinder cup in older cars deteriorates over time, causing this issue, and recommended that for cars around seven or eight years old, the brake pedal pressure should be checked monthly. Now I always keep a reflective warning triangle in the trunk—in case of emergencies, placing it 150 meters away is the safe move.
After working in an auto repair shop for eight years, I've witnessed seven brake failure incidents. Most automatic transmission car brake failures are caused by vacuum booster pump leaks or brake hose ruptures. In such situations, never turn off the ignition key - the steering wheel will lock! The correct procedure is to immediately shift into Neutral with your right hand while stabilizing the direction with your left hand. The engine's increased RPM without load can actually assist in deceleration. For vehicles with manual handbrakes, evenly pull up the brake lever; for cars equipped with ABS, try pumping the brakes repeatedly. On highways, don't hesitate to drive straight into the white emergency escape lanes - the gravel piles can save lives. For prevention, I recommend requesting brake hose expansion checks during regular maintenance.
