Why does the car still move forward after braking?
4 Answers
Modern cars are generally equipped with ABS anti-lock braking systems, so it's normal for the vehicle to move forward for a short distance after braking. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) detects impending wheel lock-up through sensors installed on the wheels. The controller then commands the modulator to reduce hydraulic pressure in the wheel cylinders, decreasing braking torque, before restoring the original pressure after a certain interval. This constant cycling (up to 5-10 times per second) keeps the wheels rotating while maintaining maximum braking torque. For vehicles without ABS, when the brake pedal is pressed hard during driving, the wheel speed decreases rapidly. If the braking force exceeds the friction between the tires and road surface, the wheels will lock up. Locked front wheels reduce tire-road friction, making it impossible for the driver to control the vehicle's direction. Locked rear wheels make the car prone to skidding.
I've also experienced the car sliding forward when braking, especially on a rainy downhill road where the braking performance was noticeably worse. Later, I learned that it might be due to issues with the braking system, such as severely worn brake pads not providing enough friction or insufficient brake fluid causing the hydraulic system to be less responsive. External factors like wet or icy roads can make the wheels more prone to slipping, and when the ABS system activates, the pulsing sensation might make it feel like the car hasn't stopped, but it's actually helping to prevent loss of control. Additionally, the inertia from heavy loads or high-speed driving can delay stopping. From experience, I've learned the importance of regularly checking brake components—at least every six months for brake pad thickness and fluid levels—and replacing them promptly if issues are found. For safety, if this happens, don’t panic; try pumping the brakes or slowly pulling over to inspect, and avoid forcing the car to continue driving.
I recall handling many similar cases where the car continues moving despite braking, which could indicate a hydraulic brake system malfunction. Common causes include air entering the system through leaks, forming bubbles that reduce pressure transmission, or rust on brake disc/drum surfaces decreasing friction efficiency. Another possibility is contaminated/damaged ABS sensors causing the system to misinterpret required braking force adjustments. For daily maintenance, I recommend first checking if the dashboard brake warning light is illuminated and verifying fluid levels. If the pedal feels spongy with excessive travel, it may indicate low fluid or air bubbles requiring bleeding. Regular brake fluid replacement prevents performance degradation – remember older vehicles are more prone to such failures, so preventive maintenance is advisable. Ensuring proper tire grip is also crucial, as even the best system performance can be compromised otherwise.
When I first started driving, I was also scared by this situation—the car would still roll even though I had pressed the brake. Simply put, common reasons include slippery road surfaces like water or ice, where the wheels slip and the anti-lock system engages, making it feel like the car hasn't stopped. Sometimes, worn-out brake pads weaken the braking, requiring you to press harder. A solution is to slowly release the brake and gently press it again—this sometimes works. Avoid sudden acceleration. If this persists, it might indicate a serious issue requiring repair. Safety first: if anything feels off, stop and check to ensure everything is okay before driving again.
