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Brake problems are a well-known cause of crashes, and rideshare drivers who log long hours and heavy stop-and-go miles wear out brakes faster than most. If you notice your brakes failing, you want to be prepared and know how to handle it.
When brake failure happens, follow these tips to stay safe.
1. Stay Calm
Above all, stay calm. A clear head is the best way out of this situation, and panicking will likely make things worse. Take a breath, turn on your hazard lights and get ready to act.
2. Press the Brakes Again
Most modern vehicles have a dual braking system, with the brakes split into two circuits, either front and back or diagonally. Both circuits would have to fail to lose braking power completely.
What you may be experiencing is the loss of one circuit, which reduces braking ability but still leaves you some stopping power. Pump the pedal quickly, then press firmly and steadily to slow the vehicle.
3. Downshift
If the brakes are working a little, downshifting will help. With a manual transmission, you can work your way down in gears to slow the vehicle down. With an automatic transmission, you want to take your foot off of the accelerator and allow the car to shift into lower gears. Some new vehicles permit you to drive the automatic transmission like a manual with paddle shifters. If this is the case, go ahead and take over to downshift.
4. Engage the Emergency Brake
If the main system has failed completely, the parking brake (emergency brake) can help because it runs separately from your hydraulic system. Be extremely cautious. Apply it slowly and gradually, since yanking it at speed can lock the rear wheels and cause a skid. If your car has an electronic parking brake, pull and hold the switch to apply it gradually. It will take longer to stop this way, but it may prevent a crash.
5. Do Not Turn Off the Car
You might think that shutting the car off is the best option, but it’s not. You want the engine running until you come to a stop. Otherwise, you will also turn off the power steering, which makes driving even more challenging. It could even cause the steering wheel to lock in place.
6. Move Off of the Road
As the car slows down, your main priority must be to get off of the road. If you are driving on the highway, you must start making your way to the right lane. Make sure you use your turn signals so that other drivers know what you are doing. Pull over as soon as it is safe to do so. If you have to park on the shoulder, make sure you turn on the hazards.
7. Have the Car Towed
Hopefully, you have a roadside assistance plan that covers towing. Get on the phone and have a tow truck head out immediately, especially if you are sitting on the side of the highway. To increase visibility, put your hood up and keep the hazard lights on. It’s wise to carry road flares or reflective triangles in the vehicle with you for these moments. Moments like these are why a AAA membership is a must.
8. Have the Car Inspected by a Mechanic
You should never get back on the road until you figure out what caused the brake failure. Have your car towed to a trusted mechanic for repair.
Another option is to have a service like Wrench send a mechanic to wherever the car is parked.
Before Brake Failure Happens
The best way to prevent this situation is to keep up with scheduled car maintenance. Brake pads wear out faster with heavy stop-and-go rideshare driving, so have them inspected regularly instead of waiting for a set mileage. Aside from replacing pads when needed, get a complete brake inspection.
This service includes examining the brake pedal, hoses, lines, assemblies and fluid. If you don’t know how to check these yourself, ask your mechanic to do it.
Get a roadside assistance plan. AAA is reliable and quick, not to mention the discounts you get with your membership.
After Brake Failure Happens
If you aren’t able to stop the vehicle before a crash occurs, you need to know what to do after an accident. Hopefully, you will never have to think about this step, especially if you perform proper maintenance and remain calm when the brakes go out.
Consult with a certified mechanic for maintenance and repairs to your vehicle. We may receive a referral fee for recommending some of the products, apps or services listed on this website. This article is for informational purposes only.
Brian Jones has been an ASE Certified Master Technician for more than 30 years, working with many dealerships around the nation.
