SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drive-brake-failure

If your brake pedal suddenly sinks to the floor, what should you do first?

Pump the brake pedal, then downshift and use the parking brake gently.

  1. Turn the engine off
  2. Pull the parking brake hard right away
  3. Pump the brake pedal ✔

Why: Pumping may build pressure back up. If that does not work, apply the parking brake gently and shift to a lower gear to slow down.

Huh, didn't know that: If your brakes get wet, you can dry them by lightly pressing the gas and brake pedals at the same time.

The dad joke
Why did the brake pedal go on vacation? It needed to stop working so hard!
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References

Answer: Pump the brake pedal. Pumping may build pressure back up. If that does not work, apply the parking brake gently and shift to a lower gear to slow down.

  1. New York State Driver's Manual, Chapter 10: Special Driving Conditions dmv.ny.gov/new-york-state-drivers-manual-and-practice-tests/chapter-10-special-driving-conditions
    If your brake pedal suddenly goes to the floor, try pumping it to increase pressure.
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. California Driver's Handbook, Section 8: Safe Driving www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/california-driver-handbook/safe-driving
    If your brakes get wet, you can dry them by lightly pressing the accelerator and brake pedals at the same time.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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