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What does pumping the brakes mean?
My dad was coaching me on what to do if my car starts sliding on ice, and he said I should “pump my brakes,” but I don’t know what that means. What does “pumping your brakes” mean?
Bonnie Stinson · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
In short, pumping your brakes is when you push on the brake pedal, then let up, then push it down repeatedly. In older vehicles, pumping your brakes would keep your brakes from locking up if you needed to make a quick stop.
However, most vehicles now are equipped with Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) which work to keep your brakes from seizing up even if you have to brake hard. With ABS, it’s better to apply firm pressure to the brakes, only letting up when you’ve made a complete stop – this will engage the ABS and keep you from excess sliding.
If you do a lot of driving in icy conditions, ensure your
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