What to Do When the Brakes Become Stiff and Hard to Press While Driving?

[Joann]

If you encounter brake failure while driving, try pressing the brake pedal multiple times to increase the chance of restoring braking force. Once you notice a brake malfunction, repeatedly press the brake several times. This will apply pressure to the brake system if there is air in the oil lines, and with repeated pressing, there is a chance the braking force may be restored. If you detect a brake issue, turn on the hazard lights to alert surrounding vehicles. In a critical situation where the brakes fail, slow down while using lights and horn to warn nearby vehicles, then call for emergency assistance. Causes of brake failure: Lack of necessary maintenance on the brake system, excessive impurities in the master cylinder, poor sealing, vacuum booster failure, contaminated brake fluid or mixing different types of brake fluid leading to vapor lock, leakage in the master or wheel cylinders, or air leaks in the air reservoir or pipe connections. Severe overloading increases the vehicle's inertia due to gravitational acceleration, directly causing brake failure. Improper operation leading to mechanical failure, such as using non-OEM floor mats (which can slip), driving in high heels/thick-soled shoes/slippers, may prevent full depression of the brake pedal, resulting in insufficient braking force and brake failure.