What is what to do when your brakes fail?

Here's what to do if your brakes fail:

  • Stay Calm: Panic will only make the situation worse. Focus on what you need to do.

  • Pump the Brakes: Rapidly pump the brake pedal. This might build up enough pressure to restore partial braking power.

  • Shift to a Lower Gear: Downshifting will use the engine to help slow the vehicle. For automatic transmissions, move the gear selector to a lower gear. For manual transmissions, downshift one gear at a time. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Lower%20Gear

  • Use the Parking Brake (Emergency Brake) Carefully: Gradually apply the parking brake. Avoid yanking it up quickly, as this could cause the vehicle to skid or lose control, especially at high speeds. Release slightly if you feel the vehicle skidding and reapply gently. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Parking%20Brake

  • Steer to Safety: Look for an escape route such as an open field, a wide shoulder, or uphill slope. Avoid heavy traffic if possible. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Steer%20to%20Safety

  • Warn Others: Turn on your hazard lights and honk your horn to warn other drivers.

  • Rub Against Something to Slow Down: If an escape route isn't available, consider carefully rubbing the side of your vehicle against a guardrail or other barrier to slow down. This should be a last resort, as it will damage your vehicle.

  • Turn Off the Ignition (If Necessary): Only turn off the ignition as a last resort. Turning off the engine will disable power steering and power brakes, making the car harder to control. If you must turn it off, be prepared to exert significantly more force to steer and brake.

  • After Stopping, Get Help: Once you've managed to stop the vehicle, do not attempt to drive it again until it has been inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic.