What are the measures to take when brake failure occurs?
3 Answers
When brake failure occurs, the measures to take are: 1. Stay calm and do not panic; 2. Utilize engine braking to slow down in time. If the brake pedal fails, you can also reduce speed by downshifting and lowering the engine RPM; 3. Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel. When the vehicle's brakes fail, hold the steering wheel steady without swerving left and right, keep the vehicle straight, and try to drive in the middle of the road; 4. Turn on the hazard warning lights immediately to alert other vehicles that your car has a malfunction; 5. In addition to turning on the hazard warning lights, alternately switch between high and low beams. The intense flashing lights will signal vehicles ahead to move aside, especially when going around curves; 6. Once the vehicle speed is reduced using engine braking, pull the handbrake tightly. The friction from the handbrake on the rear wheels can also help slow down the vehicle, and then look for a soft obstacle to stop the car.
One day when I was driving home, it was already late and the brakes suddenly failed, making it difficult to reduce speed quickly. I took a deep breath to stay calm and immediately began taking action: first, I repeatedly pressed the brake pedal several times, hoping it was a temporary air issue that could restore function; if that didn’t work, I manually downshifted to use engine braking to slow down, which is especially effective in manual transmission cars and also prevents wheel lock-up. Then, I gently pulled the handbrake for additional assistance, making sure not to pull too hard to avoid losing control of the vehicle. At the same time, I used hazard lights and the horn to alert surrounding vehicles to prevent rear-end collisions. Finally, I found a safe spot by the roadside and gradually came to a stop. Later, upon inspection, I discovered it was due to insufficient brake fluid leaking out—my habit of regularly checking the braking system saved my life. I recommend you also maintain your car frequently, such as checking brake fluid and hose wear every six months. Safe driving isn’t just a skill—it’s a mindset.
To deal with brake failure, I believe the sequence is crucial: Don't panic, staying calm is the first step. Then try quickly pumping the brake pedal to eliminate air resistance; if that doesn't work, immediately downshift to reduce speed—manual transmissions should shift directly to a lower gear, while automatic transmissions should use the limited gear or paddle shifters depending on the model. If necessary, apply the handbrake but do so evenly without sudden pulls. Simultaneously, turn on the hazard lights and honk to attract attention. If all else fails, look for friction points like curbs to slow down. After stopping, inspect the braking system as soon as possible, as there may be leaks in the lines or aged brake fluid. Maintenance advice suggests replacing brake fluid every two years to prevent moisture buildup. Familiarity with vehicle operations can be life-saving in daily situations.
