What should I do if my car's brakes fail while driving?

Understanding Brake Failure

A complete loss of braking power while driving is a rare but serious emergency. Modern vehicles have redundant hydraulic systems, making total failure uncommon, but it can still occur due to severe fluid leaks, catastrophic component failure, or significant brake pad wear. The key to surviving this situation is to remain calm, as panic can lead to overcorrection and loss of control. Your primary goals are to slow the vehicle down and steer it to a safe stop without using the traditional brake pedal.

Immediate Actions to Take

If you press the brake pedal and it goes to the floor with little to no resistance, follow these steps in order.

1. Stay Calm and Keep Control. Grip the steering wheel firmly, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers, and take your foot off the accelerator.
2. Pump the Brake Pedal. Quickly pump the brake pedal several times. This can often build up residual hydraulic pressure in a failing system and may restore some braking ability.
3. Downshift Gradually. If you have a manual transmission, downshift through the gears one at a time to use engine braking. For an automatic, shift into a lower gear (often labeled "L," "2," or "S"). Do not shift into "Park" or "Reverse," as this can lock the drive wheels and cause a crash.
4. Apply the Parking Brake. Use the parking brake, but apply it slowly and steadily. If it is a hand-operated lever, keep the release button depressed as you pull up, allowing you to modulate the pressure. For a foot pedal, press gradually. Applying it too quickly can lock the rear wheels, especially at higher speeds.
5. Steer to Safety. Look for an escape path. An uphill slope, a wide shoulder, or an open, soft area like grass can help slow the vehicle. Use gentle steering inputs to guide the car to a stop.

What to Avoid During Brake Failure

Certain reactions can make the situation more dangerous. Avoid slamming on the parking brake, as this can cause a skid. Do not turn the ignition off, as this will disable power steering and may lock the steering column. Resist the urge to sideswipe guardrails or other objects to stop, as this is unpredictable and can cause a loss of control or a rollover.

Preventing Brake Failure

Regular maintenance is the most effective way to prevent brake emergencies. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends having your brake system inspected at least annually. Key maintenance items include checking brake pad and rotor thickness, inspecting brake lines for leaks or corrosion, and ensuring the brake fluid is clean and at the proper level, as contaminated fluid can boil under heavy use. Pay attention to early warning signs like a spongy pedal, grinding noises, pulling to one side when braking, or the brake warning light on your dashboard. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent a minor problem from becoming a critical failure.

After a Brake Failure Incident

Once you have safely stopped the vehicle, do not attempt to drive it. Have the car towed to a qualified repair shop for a complete brake system inspection and repair. Explain to the technician exactly what happened so they can perform a thorough diagnosis. This is not a situation for a temporary fix; the entire hydraulic system must be checked for integrity. Following your vehicle's owner's manual for scheduled brake service intervals is the best practice for long-term safety and reliability.