What Does Brake System Failure Mean?
3 Answers
Brake system failure refers to a malfunction in the braking system. The causes of automotive brake system failure include: 1. Insufficient brake fluid; 2. Air in the brake system; 3. Excessive free travel of the brake pedal or excessive clearance in the brake, poor contact of the brake shoe friction plate, severe wear, or oil contamination; 4. Blockage in the brake system pipeline. The brake system is a series of specialized devices that can forcibly reduce the speed of a vehicle. It mainly consists of the energy supply device, control device, transmission device, and brake. The primary functions of the brake system are to decelerate or even stop a moving vehicle, maintain a stable speed for a vehicle going downhill, and keep a stationary vehicle from moving. Due to differences in vehicle design and braking methods, brake system failures can result from various causes, leading to multiple types of brake system malfunctions.
That day when I was driving downhill, the brakes suddenly felt spongy, which scared me and made me break out in a cold sweat. Brake system failure means there's a problem with the car's brakes, which may manifest as a longer brake pedal travel, unresponsiveness when pressing the pedal, or a warning light on the dashboard. Common causes include insufficient brake fluid, leaking pipelines, or severely worn brake pads. If left unchecked for a long time, aging and cracked brake lines can cause fluid leakage, and air entering the system can also reduce braking effectiveness. Some new cars with electronic parking brakes may falsely report faults if the sensors malfunction. In such situations, it's crucial to slow down and pull over immediately—never push through. It's recommended to regularly check the condition of the brake fluid and the thickness of the brake pads, especially after long trips or driving in mountainous areas.
I've seen many car owners neglect brake system maintenance, only to spend a fortune on repairs later. Brake system failure means the brakes won't function properly, posing significant safety risks. Common issues include excessively thin brake pads causing abnormal noises or longer braking distances, contaminated brake fluid affecting hydraulic transmission, and ABS sensors covered in mud triggering false alarms. If the brake pedal vibrates violently when pressed, it's likely due to warped brake rotors. It's recommended to inspect brake pads every 10,000 kilometers and replace brake fluid every two years. If you hear metal scraping sounds from the chassis or notice significantly extended braking distances, visit a repair shop immediately—don't wait until complete failure occurs.
