Final answer:
When experiencing no resistance from the car's brake pedal, the first action is to pump the brake pedal to build pressure.
Step-by-step explanation:
If your car’s brake pedal offers no resistance, this implies a serious failure in the brake system, and you must take immediate action to regain control of the vehicle and prevent an accident. The first thing you should do is try pumping the brake pedal to build up brake fluid pressure. If this doesn’t work, you can use the emergency or parking brake to reduce speed gently. It is crucial not to apply the emergency brake too harshly, as it may lock the rear wheels and cause a skid. You should also downshift to a lower gear to allow engine braking to slow down the car. While doing this, keep your eyes on the road and steer smoothly to avoid obstacles.
When you learn to drive, you might notice the need to let up slightly on the brake pedal as you come to a stop to avoid the car stopping. This is due to the relationship between static and kinetic friction. Kinetic friction acts while the car is still in motion, but as it comes to a stop, static friction takes over. Releasing the brake pedal slightly transitions the friction from kinetic to static more smoothly.
If your car's brake pedal offers no resistance, the first thing you should do to regain control is to pump the brakes or use the emergency brake.
When your car's brake pedal offers no resistance, the first thing you should do to regain control of the car is to pump the brakes or use the emergency brake. Pumping the brakes involves rapidly pressing and releasing the brake pedal to build up hydraulic pressure in the braking system. This can help restore some braking ability. Another option is to use the emergency brake, also known as the handbrake or parking brake. Pulling up on the emergency brake lever can engage the rear brakes and slow down the car.