Illinois Driving Permit Practice Test 2025 – The All-in-One Guide to Ensure Exam Success!

When brakes fail while driving, the recommended action is to shift to a lower gear and pump the brake pedal. This approach is effective for a couple of reasons. First, shifting to a lower gear can help slow down the vehicle by utilizing engine braking, which uses the engine's resistance to slow the car down. This action can be crucial in reducing speed in a situation where the brakes are not functioning properly.

Pumping the brake pedal might also help build up some pressure in the brake system, especially if there is a minor issue causing the failure. In some cases, this can help to regain partial braking functionality, allowing you to slow your vehicle more effectively.

This response prioritizes maintaining control of the vehicle and safely reducing speed, which is essential in an emergency situation. The other options, while they might seem like viable alternatives, do not effectively address the need to slow down or regain control of the vehicle.