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Created on:

31 Jul 2024

Last Updated on:

16 Apr 2025

Understanding causes, symptoms and prevention of a car brake failure.

Understanding car brake failure: Causes, symptoms, and prevention

Brake failure is one of the most fatal problems that may happen while the car is in use. The importance of analysing the causes and signs of brake failures and the ways to prevent these failures must be considered, as every car owner in India needs to ensure safe driving on the roads. As with any car, safety is also achieved by ensuring that your car is well-insured by an appropriate car insurance policy.

What are the possible causes of a car brake failure?

Some of the reasons that lead to brake failure include lack of maintenance, bad brake pads, a problem with the brake fluid or the hydraulic system, and more. However, it is important to know what makes your car’s brake fail so that you can diagnose it early. Some common causes of brake failure are:

1. Faded brake failure pads

The sources of the problem as they relate to brake fluid or hydraulic system

2. Compressed air in the brake lines

This could be due to problems with the brake calliper or the master cylinder.

3. Malfunctions in other components of the car

Other key parts of your car could malfunction, leading to a possible car brake failure.

However, brake failure usually does not come suddenly. Your car may show some symptoms before the massive failure happens, and you should keep an eye out for them.

Symptoms of car brake failure

Drivers should be informed regarding any signs that indicate a potential brake failure so that they can respond accordingly to avert an accident. Some early signs of issues with car brakes include:

  1. Squeaking of brakes and other odd noises that are considered normal for day-to-day use.

  2. Increased stopping distance

  3. The brake pedal is soft and does not offer adequate feedback or is very rigid.

  4. A car swerving under the hard, intense braking

  5. The light that shows that the brake lights are on

  6. Brake fluid leakage

If you experience any of these signs, inspect your brakes for repair and fix these problems to avoid total brake failure.

How to prevent car brake failure?

Some car maintenance tips to help prevent sudden brake failure include:

  1. Brake and fluid replacement and general assessments

  2. Brake pad replacement according to a set schedule

  3. Problems such as air pockets, stuck callipers, etc., should be corrected, especially before proceeding

  4. One of the driving tips to be observed is to ensure that you do not drive with worn-out brake pads

  5. Routine car servicing according to the service intervals provided by the car manufacturers

Car insurance also ensures financial security in the event of a brake-related accident. As suggested above, you should take policies such as car insurance, car damage coverage, etc., according to your car's type and usage.

Conclusion

By keeping informed on the causes, symptoms and ways to prevent a brake failure, it is easier for an Indian driver to drive safely on dangerous roads. Resolve such problems as early as possible and handle them with backup measures such as all-inclusive car insurance. A good driver is an educated and safety-minded driver who is capable of avoiding accidents on the roads.


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Team Zurich Kotak GIC

The content of this blog has been created and carefully reviewed by the esteemed team at Zurich Kotak General Insurance, with the sole purpose of providing valuable guidance and sharing insights on the importance of general insurance. Our objective is to assist users in making informed decisions when purchasing or renewing insurance policies for their cars, bikes, and health. Our expertly curated information aims to empower our readers with the knowledge they need to protect their valuable assets and financial interests.

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