What to Do If Your Brakes Fail While Driving
Another storm system will bring scattered showers and thunderstorms for today later this afternoon. And as we are navigating the roads in the rain here in Dallas, the last thing we want is to experience brake failure while driving. Because, it’s one of the most alarming situations a driver can face. But, quick thinking and calm action can be crucial to managing this emergency safely. So, in this blog, the experts at Meineke in Dallas outline the steps to follow if you ever find yourself in the terrifying situation of your brakes failing while you’re on the road.
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
- The first and most important step is to stay as calm as possible. Because, panicking can lead to erratic behavior. And this could worsen the situation. So, take a deep breath and focus on the road and your options.
2. Warn Other Drivers
- Turn on your hazard lights immediately to alert drivers around you that you’re experiencing trouble. Also, honk your horn if necessary to make others aware of your presence, especially if you need to maneuver into another lane.
3. Attempt to Restore Brake Function
- Before assuming complete brake failure, try to see if there’s any stopping power left. So let take a look at how to do this:
- Pump the Brake Pedal: Because, in vehicles with conventional brakes, rapidly pumping the brake pedal may help build up enough pressure to engage the brakes.
- Downshift Gears: Use manual mode or shift to a lower gear to help the car decelerate in an automatic vehicle. And in a manual transmission, downshift through the gears progressively. Because, this process, known as engine braking, can reduce speed without relying solely on the brakes.
4. Use the Emergency Brake
- The emergency or parking brake operates independently of the hydraulic braking system. So, this could help slow the vehicle down. Also, apply it gradually to avoid locking up the wheels and losing control.
5. Find a Safe Place to Stop
- As you work to slow down, look for a safe space to pull over, such as the shoulder of the road or an emergency lane. Also, avoid sharp turns or abrupt stops that could cause your car to skid or flip.
6. Use Soft Barriers If Necessary
- If stopping becomes urgent and you are unable to reduce your speed effectively, look for less dangerous obstacles to brush against, such as hedges, bushes, or a guardrail. Because, this action should be used as a last resort to minimize the impact of a potential collision.
7. Turn Off the Ignition as a Last Resort
- Turning off the ignition can cut power to the engine and help slow the car. But it will also disable power steering and potentially lock the steering wheel if done improperly. So, if you must use this method, only do so once the car has nearly stopped and is under control.
Preventive Measures
Of course the best way to prevent brake failure is to avoid it in the first place. Because, brake failure is often preventable with proper vehicle maintenance. So let take a look at some proactive steps you can take:
- Regular Brake Inspections: Have your brakes checked at least once a year at your ASE certified Meineke in Dallas.
- Monitor Brake Fluid: Low brake fluid can be a sign of a leak or worn brake pads, which can lead to failure.
- Pay Attention to Warning Signs: Grinding noises, a spongy brake pedal, or any delays in stopping can indicate a problem with your braking system.
Know What To Do in This Worst Case Scenario Can Help Keep You Safe
Staying calm and following these steps could make all the difference if you ever face brake failure. And always prioritize safety and proper vehicle maintenance to reduce the likelihood of such emergencies. Also, if you suspect your brake may not be working as well as they should, call Meineke on East Northwest Highway in Dallas to get a quick, affordable inspection.
If the Meineke in Dallas is not a convenient auto repair center for you, Meineke has 11 car repair centers is Texas:
Meineke Car Care Center – Hwy 123
1252 Highway 123
San Marcos, TX 78666
Call (512) 396-8285
Meineke Car Care – Altamesa Dr.
3012 Altamesa Blvd
Fort Worth, TX 76133
Call (682) 703-2378
Meineke Car Care – Bryant Irvin Rd.
5031 Bryant Irvin Road
Fort Worth, TX 76132
Call (817) 744-7900
Meineke Car Care – W Northwest Hwy.
11613 East Northwest Highway
Dallas, TX 75218
Call (214) 221-1177
Meineke Car Car – Broadway Blvd.
5615 Broadway Blvd.
Garland, TX 75043
Call (469) 366-9360
Meineke Car Care – Burnet Road
7829 Burnet Road
Austin, TX 78757
Call (512) 814-0877
Meineke Car Care – Valley View Lane
2513 Valley View Lane
Farmers Branch, TX 75234
Call (972) 247-2600
Meineke Car Care – North Bell Blvd.
2105 North Bell Blvd
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Call (512) 686-5491
Meineke Car Care – Kirkwood Rd.
2343 S. Kirkwood Road
Houston, TX 77077
Call (832) 288-5380
Meineke Car Care – Poly Webb Rd.
5980 Poly Webb Road
Arlington, TX 76016
Call (817) 765-2194
Meineke Car Care – W. Main St.
1550 West Main Street
Lewisville, TX 75067
Call (469) 312-3356
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