You should avoid driving through deep puddles or flowing water. But if you must, which of these steps can help keep your brakes working?

You should avoid driving through deep puddles or flowing water. But if you must, which of these steps can help keep your brakes working?

• A. Gently putting on the brakes while driving through the water
• B. Slamming on the brakes before entering water
• C. Turning off the engine in water
• D. Using the horn to warn others

Answer: (A)

When braking performance can be compromised by water, keeping some brake contact as you move through the water helps maintain control. Gently applying the brakes while going through the water helps keep the brake components from cooling or completely soaking and then losing effectiveness all at once. It also starts the drying process so you’ll have better stopping power when you exit the water. Slamming on the brakes before entering water can cause a skid or loss of control, turning off the engine in water can reduce steering and exhaust risks, and honking doesn’t affect braking at all. After you’ve left the water, ease off and then test the brakes gently to confirm they’re working smoothly.

When braking performance can be compromised by water, keeping some brake contact as you move through the water helps maintain control. Gently applying the brakes while going through the water helps keep the brake components from cooling or completely soaking and then losing effectiveness all at once. It also starts the drying process so you’ll have better stopping power when you exit the water. Slamming on the brakes before entering water can cause a skid or loss of control, turning off the engine in water can reduce steering and exhaust risks, and honking doesn’t affect braking at all. After you’ve left the water, ease off and then test the brakes gently to confirm they’re working smoothly.