The braking system is the most critical safety system on your vehicle. Brake fade, uneven braking, or brake failure on the road can be fatal. Regular maintenance and early attention to warning signs prevent most brake-related incidents.
Warning Signs of Brake Problems
Squealing or grinding: Brake pads worn to the wear indicator (metal-on-metal grinding requires immediate attention). Vehicle pulling to one side when braking: Uneven brake force — seized caliper or uneven pad wear. Longer stopping distances: General brake wear or brake fluid contamination. Spongy or low brake pedal: Air in the hydraulic system or brake fluid leak — serious, address immediately. Brake warning light on dashboard: Check fluid level; if full, a sensor or system fault exists.
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
ABS prevents wheel lockup during hard braking, allowing you to steer while braking. When ABS activates, you feel a pulsing sensation in the brake pedal — this is normal. Do not pump the brakes — apply firm, continuous pressure and steer around the obstacle. ABS does not reduce stopping distance significantly on dry roads; its benefit is maintaining steering control.
Exam tip: With ABS, you apply firm continuous pressure and steer. Without ABS, you pump the brakes (threshold braking) to avoid lockup. Know which system your vehicle has.