Can Brakes Cause Car Engine to Skip?

Introduction

When you’re driving, you expect your car to perform smoothly and reliably. However, there are times when you may experience unexpected problems, such as your car engine skipping. This can be a concerning issue, especially if you’re not sure what’s causing it. One possible cause of a skipping engine is a problem with your brakes.

How Brakes Work

Before we discuss how brakes can cause a skipping engine, it’s important to understand how brakes work. When you step on the brake pedal, you’re activating a hydraulic system that uses brake fluid to apply pressure to the brake pads. The brake pads then press against the brake rotors, which are connected to the wheels. This friction slows down the wheels and stops the car.

How Brakes Can Cause a Skipping Engine

There are two main ways that brakes can cause a skipping engine:

Vacuum leak: When you step on the brake pedal, it creates a vacuum in the brake booster. This vacuum is used to assist you in applying pressure to the brake pedal. If there is a leak in the brake booster, it can cause the engine to skip because it will no longer be able to create the necessary vacuum.
Electrical problem: The brake system is also connected to the car’s electrical system. If there is a problem with the electrical system, it can cause the engine to skip because it will no longer be able to receive the necessary power.

Symptoms of a Skipping Engine

If you’re experiencing a skipping engine, there are a few symptoms that you may notice:

The engine may idle rough.
The engine may stall when you come to a stop.
The engine may hesitate when you accelerate.
The check engine light may be illuminated.

Diagnosing the Problem

If you’re experiencing a skipping engine, it’s important to have it diagnosed by a qualified mechanic. The mechanic will be able to determine the cause of the problem and recommend the appropriate repairs.

Repairing the Problem

The repair for a skipping engine will depend on the cause of the problem. If the problem is caused by a vacuum leak, the mechanic will need to replace the brake booster. If the problem is caused by an electrical problem, the mechanic will need to repair or replace the faulty electrical component.

Preventing a Skipping Engine

There are a few things you can do to help prevent a skipping engine:

Have your brakes inspected regularly.
Replace your brake pads and rotors when they are worn.
Avoid driving in harsh conditions that can damage your brakes.

Conclusion

A skipping engine can be a concerning issue, but it’s important to remember that it can be caused by a variety of factors, including problems with your brakes. If you’re experiencing a skipping engine, it’s important to have it diagnosed by a qualified mechanic so that the problem can be repaired and you can get back on the road safely.