A brake pedal that suddenly goes to the floor is not something you want to discover in traffic.

In this episode, Motormouth explains what can happen when you lose brake pressure, what you should do if the pedal suddenly drops, and - more importantly - why brake maintenance cannot stop with the last brake job.

Brake lines, fluid, hydraulic components, calipers, wheel cylinders, hoses and the master cylinder all need inspection and service between brake jobs. Corrosion, leaks and worn components can develop long before the brake pads or shoes are due again.

This isn't about scaring you - it's about prompting you to check your brakes before they give you a reason to panic. Find the weak spot in the shop instead of discovering it when a brake line ruptures and you suddenly have a pedal on the floor, an unexpected me ...