New York DMV Permit Written TestSafe Driving PracticesHard
A driver is experiencing unexpected brake fade, where the brakes feel spongy and require more pressure to slow the vehicle. Which of the following is the most appropriate action to regain control and stop the vehicle safely?
- ADownshift to a lower gear and apply the parking/emergency brake gradually.
- BMaintain current speed and try to find a soft landing spot.
- CPump the brake pedal rapidly and repeatedly.
- DTurn off the engine to reduce speed.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Downshift to a lower gear and apply the parking/emergency brake gradually.
If pumping the brake pedal (which addresses partial brake failure, not fade) doesn't work, downshifting uses engine braking to slow the vehicle. Simultaneously, applying the parking or emergency brake gradually (to avoid skidding) can bring the vehicle to a stop. Turning off the engine removes power steering and brake assist, making control harder.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Maintaining speed is extremely dangerous and will likely lead to a collision.
- C. Pumping the brakes is for sudden brake failure (e.g., loss of fluid), not brake fade where the system is working but less effectively due to heat.
- D. Turning off the engine will eliminate power steering and power brakes, making the vehicle much harder to control.
Brake Fade Response
To stop a vehicle experiencing brake fade, downshift to use engine braking and gradually apply the parking brake.
- Brake fade is due to overheating, reducing effectiveness.
- Pumping may not work for fade.
- Engine braking and emergency brake are crucial backups.
Memory trick: Fade means aid: downshift, then parking brake, don't wait!