Emergency guide: How to handle brake failure safely

When someone takes driving lessons, one of the first things they are taught is the ‘ABC’ of the vehicle; i.e., Accelerator, Brake, and Clutch. In our previous article, we talked about clutch and driving habits that could damage it in a manual setup. Here our focus is on brakes and what needs to be done, if the brake fails in mid-run.

It is given that a car’s brakes serve as the first and most critical line of defense in avoiding accidents. But what if every brake fails to respond, how will you protect the car, its passengers, and others on the road? Yes, it would be a very horrifying experience, but knowing what to do can significantly reduce the risk of injury and damage.

To help you is Carmudi's comprehensive guide on handling brake failure safely and tips to prevent it from happening in the first place.

So, without any delay let us get started -

How to handle brake failure?

Stay calm and composed

In the face of brake failure, the first instinct is to panic, but this can lead to poor decision-making. Instead, take a deep breath and focus on your next steps. Panicking often leads to erratic driving, worsening the situation.

Pump the brake pedal

One common cause of brake failure is air bubbles trapped in the brake lines, which prevent proper hydraulic pressure. Pumping the brake pedal quickly and repeatedly can help restore some braking power. If the brakes start to engage again, you may regain enough control to slow the vehicle safely.

Downshift of lower gear

Whether you’re driving a manual or an automatic car, downshifting is a vital step in reducing speed. For manual transmissions, shift to progressively lower gears. In automatic cars, engage manual mode if available or select the lowest gear (often marked “L”). Engine braking through downshifting helps reduce speed without relying on the primary braking system.

Engage the parking brake

The parking brake, also called the emergency brake, is another tool to help slow your car. Remember to pull or press it gently to avoid locking up the rear wheels, which could cause your car to spin out of control. Vehicles equipped with electronic parking brakes often have safety mechanisms to prevent wheel lockup.

Assess the surroundings & plan an escape

Stay alert, and keep checking the surroundings is advice one should never forget. This can be done by checking the mirrors and surveying the road ahead for potential escape routes. Aim to steer your car into a less crowded lane or toward a safe area. Avoid fixating on obstacles directly in front of you, as this could lead to collisions.

Do not turn off the engine

Do not turn off your vehicle until it is completely stopped. Shutting off the engine can disable power steering, making it harder to maneuver, and may activate the steering lock. It is suggested to turn off the ignition after you’ve come to a complete stop and called for roadside assistance.

Mitigate the impact

If an impact is unavoidable, aim to minimize the consequences. Avoid hitting immovable objects like trees, poles, or walls. Instead, scrape against a guardrail (if there is one on the road) or steer toward soft terrain. Yes, this would lead to some damage, but won’t it be better than slamming into something at maximum speed?

Also Read: Save your clutch: 5 things manual drivers should never do

Tips to prevent brake failure

Did you know that proactive maintenance and good driving habits can prevent most instances of brake failure? Yes, that’s true. Here are a few tips to help -

Tip 1. Declutter

A surprisingly common cause of brake failure is debris or objects lodged behind the brake pedal. Regularly check your car's footwell and remove any clutter that could obstruct pedal movement.

Tip 2. Regular and prompt maintenance

Replace brake pads and inspect brake discs for cracks or wear regularly.
Change the brake fluid as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. Old or contaminated brake fluid can compromise braking performance.
Address screeching noises, grinding sensations, or pedal changes immediately by visiting a trusted mechanic.

Tip 3. Quality parts

Using substandard parts will sure save you some money but can lead to premature wear and reduced braking efficiency. Invest in high-quality brake components to ensure reliability and longevity.

Bottom line

Brake failure is undoubtedly a stressful and dangerous situation, but staying calm and following the proper steps can save you. Make it a habit to use only original parts, and invest in regular maintenance, and regular car cleaning.

Also Read: All you need to know about seatbelts: Rules, penalties, & more