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It can be a frightening experience when your brakes go out.  We have compiled a list of things you should do if this should happen to you. 

Avoid a Panic

When things go wrong, a clear thinking head will be your best friend while behind the wheel. It is imperative that you remain calm and take the steps to deliver your car securely to the side of the road. 

Try Your Brakes a 2^nd Time

More than likely your car has a dual braking system, which regulates your rear and front brakes individually.  However, this would not be the case if you own a classic car.  With a dual braking system, both sides of the braking system would have to collapse for your vehicle to completely lose all braking control. There might be some braking power left even though half of your braking system is not operable. To attempt to slow your car down, apply solid, constant pressure to the brake pedal.

Ways to Decrease Your Speed

Once you determine that your main braking system is not working, try carefully engaging your emergency brake.  Your vehicle’s emergency brake is a separate system from the main hydraulic braking components, and can aid in stopping the vehicle.  Keep in mind that using the emergency brake to slow down your car will take longer than your main brake system.

Keeping your foot off the accelerator and shifting down through the gears is another way of slowing your car down.  With a manual transmission, shift your way down through the gears, and with an automatic transmission your car will shift to the lower gears as you release your foot from the accelerator.

Some of the newer cars have an automatic transmission that also allows you to drive your car manually.  If applicable, use the paddle gears on the steering wheel or place your transmission into manual mode and downshift to the lowest gear.  Make sure to review your owner’s manual for details on how to use your automatic transmission in manual mode. 

Avoid other traffic

As soon as you have slowed down, make sure you get your vehicle off the road to reduce the chances of being hit.  On a highway, this would mean moving your car safely into the right lane and off the road.  Use your turn signals and be aware of the traffic around you.  Flip on your hazard lights when you make your way to the slower lane.  It may be necessary to use your car’s lights and horn to warn other motorists.  From there, move onto the shoulder or parking lot and shift into neutral.  Engage your emergency or parking brake to reduce the speed of your car.  Be ready to release the emergency brake if your car starts to skid.  In the event that your emergency brake does not engage, look for curbs to drag your wheels against to reduce speed.  A soft shoulder will also help reduce your speed. 

Keep Your Car Running Until You’ve Stopped

It is important to keep your engine running until you’ve come to a complete stop. Shutting it down will eliminate your power steering, which will make it more difficult to turn and cause the steering wheel to lock up.  

Motion for Assistance

You will need some help once your vehicle is off the street.  Signal that you need assistance by raising your hood and keeping your hazard lights on.  If you have flares or reflective triangles, place them behind your car to make yourself visible.  Avoid being near oncoming traffic; you won’t want to stand next to or behind your car.  Call someone on your cell phone to receive aid. 

Be Safe

It may appear that your brakes are functional again, but it is important to have them inspected before you drive again.  Your vehicle should be towed to a mechanic or dealer so they can check your car and begin necessary repairs.  Brake difficulties can be prevented before they begin by having them inspected on a regular basis.  Tire World hopes that you will never find yourself in this situation.  Knowing what you should do will keep you and other motorists safe.