What should you do when your brakes fail?

When faced with a situation where your brakes have failed, the most effective initial action is to pump the brakes and shift to a lower gear. Pumping the brakes can sometimes build up enough hydraulic pressure to slow the vehicle down, especially if the brake failure is due to a loss of pressure rather than a complete mechanical failure. Shifting to a lower gear helps to utilize the engine's braking power, which can aid in reducing speed as you approach a stop.

This approach allows for a gradual reduction of speed and improves your control over the vehicle as you look for a safe place to stop. It's essential to remain calm and focused to steer the vehicle safely as you attempt to manage the situation.

Turning off the engine could lead to a loss of power steering and power brakes, making the situation more difficult to manage. Steering into a ditch or using the emergency brake without first attempting to reduce speed can pose additional risks, such as losing control of the vehicle or causing it to skid. While both have their place in an emergency situation, they may not be the best immediate response when you first realize your brakes are failing.