When a brake master cylinder begins to go bad or fails, you will notice a soft or squishy feeling when you press down on the brakes. When constant pressure is maintained on the pedal (like at a stop light), it will begin to sink to the floor and go farther down than normal as the brake fluid leaks internally in the master cylinder. This is called "extended travel." When this occurs you will have to "pump" the pedal to regain normal pressure and to keep the car from moving forward as the brakes slowly release. The red brake warning dash light should come on to indicate low fluid, or excessive movement "travel."  Don’t delay in calling your auto mechanic for a brake repair for the safety of you and your passengers.

Read more: Brake Repair: How Do I Know When My Vehicle Needs New Brakes?

The possibility always exists with any vehicle that one day you may find yourself broken down on the side of the road.  These days, that is a dangerous place to be.  So, don’t panic and keep your wits about you until you can safely get to the nearest auto center.

Tips to help keep you and your family safe:

• Before you ever come to a stop, it's important to keep the car under control. This means not panicking and not over reacting.
• Pull carefully over onto the safest area of the road.  The key is to get out of the active lane of traffic and to the shoulder as quickly and safely as possible.

  Read more: Safety Advice from an Auto Shop if you get stranded on the side of the road!