What is the fault when the brakes fail?

[LukasLynn]

Car brake failure may be due to a lack of necessary maintenance in the car's braking system, leading to excessive impurities in the brake master cylinder, poor sealing, failure of the vacuum booster pump, or dirty brake fluid, which requires further inspection and repair. Additional information: 1. The working principle of brakes is to convert the kinetic energy of the car into frictional heat energy for dissipation. When braking, the car's brake pedal is pressed to activate the brake lever linkage, transmitting pressure to the brake shoes on the brake drum, which then clamps the brake, causing the wheel disc to slow down or stop the car. 2. Car brakes enable the vehicle to decelerate and come to a stop. Common types of car braking devices include drum brakes and disc brakes. Drum brakes have lower manufacturing costs and are easier to install, while disc brakes offer better heat dissipation performance and are less prone to brake failure.

[AlessandraRose]

After driving for so many years, brake failure is really not uncommon. The most common issue is brake fluid leakage or insufficient levels, causing the hydraulic system to lack pressure, resulting in a soft and unresponsive pedal. Another major cause is worn-out brake pads, especially for those who frequently slam on the brakes—once the pads are nearly gone, they fail. Additionally, air trapped in the system can make the brake pedal feel strange or even lead to complete failure. ABS malfunctions can also misjudge the system, causing the brakes to suddenly stop working. I remember that time on the highway when my brakes failed and nearly caused an accident—I quickly pulled over, turned on the hazard lights, and checked. It’s important to develop good habits: regularly check the brake fluid level, replace the brake pads, and don’t wait until an emergency to regret it. If anything feels off, stop immediately and call for help or head to a repair shop—safety comes first.

[MaverickRose]

As someone who frequently tinkers with car repairs, I can tell you that brake failure is often a systemic issue. A faulty master cylinder can significantly reduce braking power, while fluid leaks in the brake lines and loose connections are common. Overly worn brake pads can weaken stopping power, and ABS malfunctions may cause the system to lock up. Air entering the brake lines can lead to a spongy pedal that doesn't rebound. During inspection, first check the fluid level—if it's below the Min line, suspect a leak. Pump the pedal a few times to assess its firmness, and listen for any unusual noises. I recommend checking the fluid level and pad thickness yourself every quarter, replacing parts or bleeding the system if issues arise. For safety, if failure occurs, stay calm—use the handbrake, downshift to slow down, and pull over gradually. Regular maintenance can prevent major problems, and visiting a reputable shop is the most reliable approach.

[StHarmony]

When I was young and bought my first car, I learned a bit about the common causes of brake failure. Worn-out brake pads or insufficient brake fluid are the main issues, making the pedal feel weak. Problems with the ABS module or a leaking master cylinder can also cause the system to fail. Aging or ruptured brake lines are also common culprits. If this happens, don’t force the car to keep moving—pull over, slow down, and stop immediately. Check the brake fluid reservoir level and top it up if low, or call a professional for repairs. Before driving, simply test the brake pedal response to avoid surprises. Regular maintenance, including fluid and pad replacements, ensures both convenience and safety.