Complete brake failure is rare, but still possible. Even a working car can present such a "surprise" if the hydraulics fail or the pads overheat. Modern cars are equipped with many sensors: they monitor the brake fluid level, pad wear and the condition of the circuits. If there is a leak or a drop in pressure, a warning light comes on on the panel, often accompanied by an audible signal.
The first thing a driver feels is that the brake pedal sinks to the floor and does not create resistance. Sometimes the reason is a trivial overheating: with frequent and sharp braking, the pads and fluid boil, the coefficient of friction drops, and the brakes seem to "disappear". After a while, they may recover, but you can't count on it - you need to react immediately.
Engine braking: your best ally
If the pedal does not work, the engine comes into play. When the throttle is closed, the engine creates resistance, slowing down the car - this is engine braking.
You need to act calmly and consistently:
- Release the gas and engage a lower gear.
- After 3–5 seconds — another one, controlling the revs on the tachometer.
- Do not allow the needle to go into the "red zone".
Too sharp a shift can lead to wheel lockup and loss of control. It is important to act smoothly, especially on slippery surfaces.
You can also use this technique on an automatic transmission - many modern gearboxes have a manual mode (M, S, Tiptronic), which allows you to downshift manually.
Parking brake: use with caution
The handbrake can become a temporary replacement for the main brakes, but requires accuracy. If the car is equipped with an electronic parking brake, you need to hold the button in the raised position - the emergency mode is activated.
With a mechanical handbrake, the lever is pulled slowly and with controlled effort. A sharp movement at speed will lead to locking of the rear axle and instantaneous skidding. If the car starts to spin, the steering wheel is turned in the direction of the skid, maintaining control over the direction.
It is worth remembering that the effectiveness of the handbrake depends on the condition of the tires, road surface and vehicle load. On wet or snowy asphalt, it works differently than on dry asphalt.
Combined stop: two methods are better than one
The most reliable way is to combine engine braking and parking brake. First, we downshift, reducing the speed to 30–40 km/h, then carefully connect the handbrake. This way you can safely stop without the risk of skidding.
If space is limited, slight use of the handbrake is allowed at a higher speed, but this requires experience and maximum concentration. Additionally, you can use the resistance of the surface: direct the car to the side of the road, on gravel or grass - there the grip is less, and the speed drops faster. In extreme cases, a slight touch of the protective fence is allowed tangentially - this helps to dissipate the energy of movement.
Practice and prevention: readiness saves lives
Emergency braking skills should be practiced on training grounds and closed areas. Only practice allows you to act instinctively, without panic.
In order not to get into a critical situation:
- regularly check the level and condition of the brake fluid;
- monitor the wear of pads and discs;
- do not ignore warnings on the panel;
- remember the features of your car - how the handbrake works, the type of transmission, gearbox modes.
The main thing is to remain calm. Even complete brake failure is not fatal if you act consistently and without sudden movements.
Brake system failure is a rare but real threat. Calmness, knowledge of engine braking techniques and proper use of the handbrake will help avoid an accident and save lives.