Braking

Braking action involves perception time and reaction time. Deciding to push the brake pedal is perception time. Actually doing it is reaction time.

Average driver reaction time is about three-qaurters of a second. In that time, a vehicle moving at 100 km/h (60 mph) travels 20m (66 ft), which could be a lot of distance in an emergency.

Helpful braking tips to keep in mind include:

  • Keep enough distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
  • Avoid needless heavy braking.
  • Keep pace with traffic.

If the engine ever stops while the vehicle is being driven, brake normally but do not pump the brakes. Doing so could make the pedal harder to push down. If the engine stops, there will be some power brake assist but it will be used when the brake is applied. Once the power assist is used up, it can take longer to stop and the brake pedal will be harder to push.

    See also:

    Roadside Assistance Program
    For U.S. purchased vehicles, call 1-800-252-1112; (Text Telephone (TTY): 1-888-889-2438). For Canadian purchased vehicles, call 1-800-268-6800. Service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year ...

    Passenger Safety BeltReminder Light
    Several seconds after the key is turned to RUN or START, a chime will sound for several seconds to remind the front passenger to buckle their safety belt. This would only occur if the passenger air ...

    Maintenance Footnotes
    (a) Visually inspect brake lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface condition. Inspect other brake parts, i ...