What should you avoid doing if your engine fails completely?

When experiencing a complete engine failure, the most important reaction is to maintain control of the vehicle. Touching the brake at this moment can initiate a sudden deceleration, which may lead to a loss of control or even skidding, especially if the road surface is slippery. It is particularly critical to avoid abrupt actions that could disturb the stability of the vehicle.

Instead, engaging the hazard lights is a sensible measure to alert other drivers about your situation, and shifting to neutral allows you to steer the car more freely while maintaining some control. Accelerating gently is generally not advisable as the engine has failed, but keeping the vehicle steady until you can maneuver safely is crucial. Therefore, handling the situation with controlled movements while alerting others is essential for safety during a complete engine failure.