Why Can't the Brake Pedal Be Pressed Down in Snowy Weather?
2 Answers
The reason why the brake pedal can't be pressed down in snowy weather: The main reason is that in snowy conditions, the road surface is covered with snow or ice, resulting in significantly lower traction compared to dry roads. Therefore, even if the brake isn't fully pressed, it's easy to trigger the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). When ABS intervenes during braking, the brake will make a thumping sound, and the brake pedal will suddenly become stiff. Precautions: In winter, if the brake becomes stiff while driving, it's usually due to ABS activation, which is normal and not a mechanical failure. Another situation is when the brake pedal becomes very stiff during a cold start. This phenomenon mainly occurs because the brake fluid becomes viscous in low temperatures, reducing its fluidity. The increased resistance in pushing the brake pads makes the brake pedal naturally stiffer. Solutions: If the brake pedal can't be pressed down in snowy weather, idling the car for about ten minutes can restore normal function. Alternatively, choosing an indoor parking space when parking can help avoid this issue.
Last time during heavy snow, I was driving back to my hometown when suddenly the brakes became as hard as iron, impossible to press down—it was terrifying. After checking, I found layers of ice had formed on the wheels and brake discs, all from wet snow freezing inside. That time, on a remote road, I had to inch my way to a service area and wait half a day for help to thaw it out. Since then, I've learned to be smarter: in winter, I always park in a garage or a dry place if possible; if there's no garage, I cover the brake parts with a waterproof cover. Before driving, I also warm up the car for ten minutes to let the temperature rise. I also recommend adding antifreeze to the brake system to prevent freezing. If you ever encounter a situation where the brakes won't budge, don't force it—slow down immediately, pull over safely with hazard lights on, and handle the situation. Remembering these small tips can make winter driving much safer, and the key is to always observe your car's condition closely.