Understanding Your Car Brakes – and How to Stop Safely

Posted: Oct 10, 2012
Author: Country Town Tire & Auto Service Center

Modern vehicles have highly efficient braking systems, which can bring them to a halt remarkably quickly. In normal driving situations, the brakes should first be gently applied then the pressure progressively increased. This enables you to bring the vehicle to a controlled, smooth stop.

If you brake too hard, you run the risk of locking the wheels up and skidding. When this happens, you lose the ability to steer. Late or harsh braking also shows poor driving ability. A good driver anticipates the need to slow down before it is necessary to stop quickly.

Brakes with ABS

An Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) is a critical factor in an emergency situation. Almost all cars manufactured in recent years have ABS. The system works by preventing the wheels from locking up and skidding when the driver has to brake quickly. The driver can continue steering effectively while braking heavily. This is crucial to safety.

Brakes without ABS

If your car does not have ABS brakes, here’s how to stop in an emergency:

Keep both hands on the steering wheel. Press firmly on the brake pedal, but not so harshly that the wheels lock and you start skidding. If your wheels do lock, ease your foot off the brake pedal until the wheels start rotating again. You can then apply the brake less harshly. If your vehicle has a manual transmission, just before you come to a stop, press the clutch pedal to prevent the car from stalling.

Note: Always try to use your brakes when driving in a straight line. Braking while turning a corner at speed reduces tire grip on the road. Try braking before the turn instead.