If hydraulic brakes fail while driving, what action should you take?

If hydraulic brakes fail while driving, what action should you take?

• A. Pump the brake pedal to generate pressure
• B. Release the brake pedal and coast
• C. Push the accelerator to boost pressure
• D. Engage the parking brake

Answer: (A)

When hydraulic brakes lose pressure, the pedal can feel soft or go to the floor. The first and most effective action is to pump the brake pedal several times to rebuild hydraulic pressure in the lines and restore braking capability. If braking remains weak, downshift to a lower gear to use engine braking and ease off speed while steering to a safe area. As a last resort, you can gradually apply the parking brake to help slow the vehicle, but do so gently to avoid a loss of control. Do not try to accelerate to regain pressure, and avoid coasting with no braking capability.

When hydraulic brakes lose pressure, the pedal can feel soft or go to the floor. The first and most effective action is to pump the brake pedal several times to rebuild hydraulic pressure in the lines and restore braking capability. If braking remains weak, downshift to a lower gear to use engine braking and ease off speed while steering to a safe area. As a last resort, you can gradually apply the parking brake to help slow the vehicle, but do so gently to avoid a loss of control. Do not try to accelerate to regain pressure, and avoid coasting with no braking capability.