Your brakes are the single most important safety system in your vehicle. They give you control, confidence, and protection every time you’re behind the wheel. But what happens if they suddenly fail while driving? And how can you prevent that situation in the first place?
At Smoky Hill Auto, we want our community to always stay safe on the road throughout the year. This guide covers two essential brake safety topics: what to do if your brakes stop working and how to recognize the signs that it’s time for brake service or replacement.
What to Do If Your Brakes Fail While Driving
Brake failure is rare, but it can happen — often due to leaks in the brake lines, overheating from worn components, or total neglect of maintenance. If you ever find yourself in this scary situation, staying calm and taking quick action is vital.
Step 1: Don’t Panic — Stay Calm – Panicking can cause you to lose control. Keep your focus and act practically & methodically.
Step 2: Pump the Brake Pedal – Sometimes, pumping the pedal can build up enough brake fluid pressure to regain some stopping power.
Step 3: Downshift to Slow Down – f you’re in an automatic, shift to “L” (low gear). In a manual, move to a lower gear gradually. Engine braking will help reduce your speed.
Step 4: Use the Emergency Brake Carefully – The parking brake (handbrake) can slow the vehicle, however pull it slowly and steadily to avoid locking the wheels and skidding.
Step 5: Steer Toward Safety – Signal and steer toward the shoulder, an empty lane, or an uphill grade. And as best as possible avoid swerving into traffic or oncoming drivers.
Step 6: Warn Others – Turn on hazard lights and honk if necessary to alert other drivers.
How to Know When It’s Time for Brake Replacement
Fortunately, total brake failure is often preventable if you commit and prioritize proper maintenance intervals. Your brakes usually send out warning signs long before they fail completely.
Here are the most common indicators that it’s time to schedule a brake inspection or replacement:
1. Squealing or Grinding Sounds – High-pitched squeals mean your brake pads are wearing thin. Grinding usually means the pads are completely gone and the rotors are being damaged.
2. Longer Stopping Distances – If your vehicle doesn’t stop as quickly as it used to, your pads, rotors, or fluid may be worn out.
3. Brake Warning Light On – Your dashboard warning light signals a problem with the hydraulic system or low brake fluid.
4. Vibration or Pulsation – If the brake pedal shakes when you press it, your rotors may be warped.
5. Spongy or Soft Pedal – If the pedal sinks to the floor or feels “mushy,” you may have air in the lines or a fluid leak — both serious issues.
Why Regular Brake Service Matters
- Prevents Costly Repairs – Replacing pads is far cheaper than replacing rotors, calipers, or an entire ABS system.
- Protects Your Safety – Healthy brakes mean quicker stops and fewer accidents.
- Extends Vehicle Life – Proper maintenance helps your braking system last longer and perform reliably.
Knowing how to respond during a brake emergency could save your life or someone else’s— but the best defense is prevention. Pay attention to the warning signs, and don’t ignore your brakes until it’s too late.
At Smoky Hill Auto, our ASE-certified technicians inspect and service brakes daily. Whether you’re due for a brake pad replacement, a fluid flush, or just want peace of mind, we’re here to help.
And while we are on the topic of brakes, during the month of October, we are raising money for Breast Cancer Awareness. For every brake job we perform here at our shop we will donate $10 to the breast cancer fund via the Cleveland Clinic Cancer Program. Supporting a good cause while keeping our communities safe is extremely impactful and meaningful to Kermit & I.
Call us at 303-766-9227 or schedule your brake inspection online today. Stay safe, drive with confidence, and let us keep your brakes in top shape.
Here’s to smooth rides, enjoyable experiences and safe travels!
Sincerely,
Caitlyn Pridemore-Sjaardema
Co-Owner/CFO/CMO