Why can't the X-Trail's brake be pressed and the car won't start?
3 Answers
Reasons why the X-Trail's brake can't be pressed and the car won't start: The car's vacuum booster pump has malfunctioned; There is an obstruction on the brake pedal; The braking system has failed. Lack of brake fluid: Clean, high-quality brake fluid is fundamental to the safety and good performance of the braking system. Car owners should always purchase the highest quality brake fluid available on the market. If the brake fluid is dirty, drain and flush the entire system, then refill the master cylinder with new fluid. Do not reuse brake fluid; all brake fluid drained from the system should be discarded. Brake system failure: If the brake fluid is consistently low over a long period and the car owner keeps adding more, it is clear that there is a problem with the car's braking system, which needs to be inspected.
A car like the X-Trail has an intelligent start system, which requires pressing the brake and then the button to start. If the brake pedal feels hard to press, it's likely due to a lack of vacuum in the brake booster—meaning the engine isn't running, so the vacuum booster pump isn't working. Additionally, if the brake is stiff and the car won't start, the issue could be a faulty brake switch or a low battery. A dead battery means no power to the vehicle, and the system can't detect the brake status, preventing startup. Quickly check if the car key battery is dead or try replacing it. Regular maintenance is crucial; if there's a vacuum pump or brake fluid leak, get it fixed immediately. I recommend not delaying and visiting a professional shop—safety comes first.
I've driven the X-Trail for several years, and this issue is quite common. If the car won't start when you press the brake, and the brake pedal feels stiff, it's usually due to a power assist system failure or minor electrical issues. The vacuum assist relies on the engine running and fails when the engine is off. For electrical problems, poor contact in the brake switch or a blown fuse can block the start logic. First, check the battery—if the voltage is below 12V on a multimeter, charge it or replace it. If the key and lights are working fine, the switch is likely faulty, which is hard to fix yourself. If this happens suddenly while driving, it's very dangerous—immediately turn on the hazard lights, pull over, and call for help instead of forcing it. Regularly checking the brake system every six months can prevent this.
