My Rear Brakes Aren’t Working: What Should I Do?
If your car’s rear brakes aren’t working, the first thing you should do is find a safe place to park. Then, get out and take a look at the brake pads. If they’re completely worn down, you’ll need to replace them. If there’s still some pad left, you can try bleeding the brake system.
But there is a little bit more to discuss here. Let’s find out what causes you to fail your actual brakes and what you should do when you are in danger like this.
Table of Contents
- What Causes Your Rear Brakes To Fail
- How You Should React When They Do
- When You Need To Replace Them
- How Do You Diagnose Rear Brake Problems?
- Front Brakes Work But Not Rear.
- FAQs.
What Causes Your Rear Brakes To Fail
The most common cause of rear brake failure is a leak in the system. Over time, the fluid in the brake lines can seep out, resulting in a loss of pressure. This can cause the brakes to feel spongy when applied or even fail to work altogether.
Another problem that can lead to rear brake failure is wear and tear on the components. The pads and shoes can become worn down, causing them to lose their effectiveness.
In addition, the drums and rotors can become warped or damaged, making it difficult for the brakes to make complete contact.
If your rear brakes are not working correctly, it is essential to have them checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Failure to do so could result in an accident.
How You Should React When They Do
If your rear brakes fail while driving, staying calm and avoiding panicking is crucial. Remember to pump the brakes slowly and steadily and avoid slamming on them. This could cause the car to skid out of control.
If you have an emergency brake, use it to slow the car down gradually. Once the car has stopped, please put it in a park and turn on the hazard lights. Then, get out and assess the situation. If possible, call for help or flag down a passing motorist. Do not attempt to drive if your rear brakes are not working correctly. Doing so could be extremely dangerous.
Hopefully, this article has helped you understand what to do if your rear brakes fail. Remember, it is always best to err on the side of caution and have a qualified mechanic inspect your car as soon as possible. Do not attempt to drive if you are unsure about the condition of your brakes. Doing so could put you and others at risk.
When You Need To Replace Them
When it comes time to replace your rear brakes, it is vital to use quality parts designed for your specific vehicle. Using defective brake components can lead to further problems down the road. Be sure to consult with a qualified mechanic or dealer before making any repairs.
It is also essential to ensure that your rear brakes are compatible with your front brakes. Mixing and matching brake components can lead to uneven braking and decreased performance. Using defective brake components can lead to further problems down the road.
If the pads are worn out, they will need to be replaced. In addition, the drums and rotors may need to be replaced if they are damaged or warped. Depending on the severity of the problem, you may be able to have your rear brakes repaired, or you may need to replace them entirely.
How Do You Diagnose Rear Brake Problems?
First, you’ll want to check the brake pads. If they’re worn down, they may not be providing enough friction to stop the car. You can also check the rotors for wear. If they’re grooved or uneven, they may need to be replaced.
Another potential issue is a leak in the brake line. This can be diagnosed by checking for brake fluid leaks.
Finally, you may need to adjust the rear brakes. This can usually be done by turning a screw on the back of the brake caliper.
Front Brakes Work But Not Rear.
This problem is most likely due to a leak in the line that goes from the master cylinder to the rear brakes. This is a relatively easy fix, and once the leak is repaired, the brakes should work correctly again.
In the meantime, you must be careful when driving, as it is more difficult to stop when only the front brakes are working. Apply the front brakes gently when stopping, and be prepared for longer stopping distances. Avoid driving in heavy traffic or on highways, where having functioning rear brakes is critical.
I hope you clearly understood the causes of rear brake farriers and how you can fix this issue quickly. The steps for diagnosing rear brake problems are easy to follow and can be done in your garage. If you still have questions about how the process works, feel free to comment below.
FAQs.
What would cause no brake fluid to rear brakes?
There are several potential reasons why there would be no brake fluid rear brakes. One possibility is a leak in the brake line, which would cause the fluid to seep out over time.
Another reason could be a faulty brake caliper, which would prevent the fluid from reaching the rear brakes. If the system is not flushed correctly, it’s also possible for air bubbles to form and prevent the rear brakes from working.
Do rear brakes engage first?
No, the front brakes typically engage first as they are used more often.
Rear brakes don’t typically engage until 15-20 mph, about 3-4 seconds after the front brakes have engaged and slowed down the vehicle. This is because rear brake shoes are longer than those on the front and take time to engage.
Can you drive with front brakes only?
You can drive with front brakes only, but it’s not recommended because you’ll have much less stopping power. If your rear brakes are malfunctioning or not working, using just the front brakes will be better than using no brakes at all.
How do you know if your brake master cylinder is going out?
If your vehicle’s brake master cylinder is going out, you’ll likely notice a decrease in braking power. This can manifest as a longer stopping distance, increased pedal travel, or a spongy feel when pressing the pedal.
In some cases, you may also see brake fluid leaking from the cylinder. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to have the cylinder checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Left unchecked, a failing brake master cylinder can lead to complete loss of braking power, increasing the risk of an accident.
Can you drive without Backbrakes?
Most cars are equipped with two brake systems: the front brakes and the rear brakes. The front brakes are usually more powerful than the rear ones, since they have to stop the bulk of the car’s weight. For this reason,
it’s generally not recommended to drive without rear brakes. However, if your car is in good condition and you’re an experienced driver, you may be able to get by with just front brakes. Just be sure to keep your speed down and give yourself plenty of stopping distance.