What Causes Brake Failure?

[McKaden]

Brake failure reasons: 1. Excessive moisture or air in the brake fluid, causing air resistance in the system, resulting in weak caliper pressure and eventual brake failure; 2. Brake system leakage due to aging of major components or pipelines causing brake fluid leakage; 3. Damaged brake booster or vacuum system failure, unable to provide assistance; 4. Internal damage to the master cylinder or wheel cylinders; 5. Poor braking performance of brake discs/pads; 6. Malfunction in the vehicle's brake system. The brake system is one of the most crucial components of a vehicle, serving to decelerate or stop moving vehicles, maintain stable speed during downhill driving, and keep stationary vehicles immobile.

[SanGage]

After driving for so many years, I've seen brake failures mostly due to insufficient or leaking brake fluid, especially in older cars where aging pipes are prone to seepage, causing a sudden drop in braking force when the fluid level is low. There's also the issue of worn-out brake pads not being replaced in time, leading to failure under high-speed friction. Other problems like a faulty ABS pump, a broken vacuum booster, or air in the lines can make the brakes feel spongy. I make it a habit to check the fluid reservoir level every month and get repairs done immediately if I hear any unusual noises—never delay. If the brake pedal suddenly sinks deep when braking, pull over immediately and call for help—safety comes first. During regular maintenance, have the technician test the braking system to prevent problems before they occur. Remember, in rainy weather or on poor road conditions like mountain roads, check even more frequently.

[FelicityAnn]

Brake failure is really dangerous and could easily lead to an accident. When driving, I always remind myself to pay attention to maintenance. Brake fluid leakage is the most common issue, caused by aging seals or small holes leaking, making the pedal feel loose. Another reason is severely worn brake discs and pads, which can cause poor braking and even smoke. Air in the brake lines requires bleeding; otherwise, the brakes feel weak. I’ve also experienced sensor failures that disabled the ABS, making it even more hazardous in snowy conditions. Change the brake fluid every six months, keep the discs and pads clean, and avoid prolonged braking in traffic jams. If the brakes fail while driving, use engine braking to slow down gradually and apply the handbrake carefully. Never skimp on repairs—always visit a reputable shop to inspect the hydraulic system.

[DiHailey]

My buddy once experienced brake failure on the highway, which scared him badly. The main reason was excessive wear on the brake discs, as he usually neglected to replace the pads, and when they got too thin, they couldn't grip properly. Leaks in the brake lines are also not uncommon, such as cracked hoses leaking fluid. A faulty ABS module can cause uneven distribution of braking force, leading to loss of control when braking. Always check the pedal feedback before driving; if it feels spongy, get it fixed promptly. Don't skimp on maintenance to save money. Having a technician perform a thorough inspection of the brake components annually will make driving much safer.