Loss of Brakes

Similar to power steering loss, your braking system can lose fluid naturally or through some break or leak in the system. When you depress the brake pedal, it will feel squishy or spongy as the brakes get worn down. This is a warning sign, and you should have your brakes repaired immediately.

Sometimes, though, you will get no warning. Out on the road, you hit the brakes and the pedal feels spongy or goes right to the floor – worst of all, your vehicle is not slowing down!

In this situation, again stay calm and take control. Pump the brake pedal. Sometimes, this can generate enough fluid just to help you bring your vehicle to a safe stop. Remember, do not press and hold the pedal. This could cause your wheels to lock up, and you will lose complete control.

If pumping the brakes does no good, use your parking/emergency brake. Just be sure to apply it gradually if possible. Too much pressure too soon can also cause you to lose control. If your emergency brake is the lever type located to your right, keep your thumb on the release button. This will give you more control over the amount of braking you apply.

Believe it or not, you still have options if nothing has worked so far. Even if you have an automatic transmission, you can still shift to a different, lower gear. This will let the engine slow you down. You can even turn your ignition off while still in gear. This will slow you down as well. Your transmission might take a bit of a beating, but right now, that should be the least of your worries. Remember too, that when you turn off your engine you may lose your power steering.