What to Do When the Camry's Brakes Fail?
2 Answers
There are many reasons why brakes may fail, such as operational errors, vehicle overload, or damage to the braking system. Below are specific explanations: 1. Regular Brake System Inspection: During vehicle use, most issues arise from the driver's operational mistakes, leading to problems with the car's braking system. Therefore, it's essential to develop good driving habits and regularly inspect the vehicle's braking system. The braking system is crucial for the car, and any issues should not be taken lightly. If problems are detected, promptly visit a repair shop or a 4S store for inspection. 2. Forced Deceleration: While driving, you might find the brakes hard to press, often due to vehicle overload. This situation can easily increase the engine's load and ultimately affect the braking system's normal operation. If the brakes fail while driving, turn on the hazard lights, find a safe section of the road to slow down, and inspect the car once it's safely stopped. In case of brake failure, try to find some buffer objects for forced deceleration, although this may cause damage to the vehicle.
My Camry also experienced soft brakes last year, and the inspection revealed that the brake fluid had too high a water content. It's generally recommended to replace brake fluid every two years or 40,000 kilometers, as a water content exceeding 3% can affect braking performance. Pay special attention to the wear level of brake pads—factory pads should be replaced when they're down to 3mm. When tire tread depth falls below 1.6mm, traction significantly decreases, especially making the car more prone to skidding in rainy conditions. Lastly, don’t forget to check the brake discs; excessive wear or noticeable grooves can increase stopping distance. I usually shift to S gear and use engine braking on long descents to avoid overheating the brakes. These checks can be completed in half an hour at a regular repair shop—don’t put them off.
