Question

Difficulty: MediumVehicle Emergencies and Equipment Failures

If a vehicle experiences complete foot brake failure while in motion, turning the ignition switch directly to the 'LOCK' position is the safest immediate action to stop the vehicle.

Answer: Answer

Answer

The statement is False. Turning the ignition key to the 'LOCK' position while driving locks the steering wheel, resulting in a total loss of steering control.
The statement is false because turning the ignition key to the 'LOCK' position while the vehicle is moving engages the steering lock mechanism, causing the driver to lose steering control completely. The proper procedure for brake failure is to downshift to a lower gear and carefully apply the parking brake while steering to a safe stop.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Evaluate the mechanical consequences of moving an ignition switch to the 'LOCK' position on a moving vehicle.
Identify that the steering column locks mechanically when the switch is placed in 'LOCK'.
Ignition systems are designed with an anti-theft locking mechanism that engages in the 'LOCK' position.
2
Determine the proper emergency procedures for total service brake failure.
Recognize that controlling steering directional path while downshifting and applying the parking brake is necessary.
Maintaining steering control is critical to safely maneuvering off the roadway during a brake emergency.

Key Concept

Steering Lock Risk During Mechanical Failures
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