'I'm On the Verge of Tears:' Texas Woman Gets 'Low Braking Power' Warning From Her Toyota Camry. Now What?

• Toyota

A Texas woman is going viral for not knowing what exactly to do when her low braking power warning goes off in her 2018 Toyota Camry. 

In a TikTok that’s generated over 10,200 views as of this writing, Widelyn Khalifa (@favbbw93) shares how this low braking power warning on her Toyota Camry nearly brought her to tears. 

In the viral post, Khalifa desperately asks, “Can anybody tell me what this means?”

She then shows her dashboard, which reads, “Low Braking Power.” 

The warning message also mentions going to a safe place and consulting the owner's manual. 

Khalifa says she is unsure of what to do next. “Me and my daughter are in the car and I am some ways from home. What in the first of the month—what does this mean?” she asks. 

Clearly confused by the situation, Khalifa went to TikTok to ask what to do next. However, commenters weren’t necessarily the most polite in response. 

“Um it says see owners manual meaning. Look at the book,” one TikTok commenter said.

“Your manual will tell you. It literally says, see owners manual,” a second replied.

Other commenters were more gracious and helpful by adding their input on what the issue is.

“You may be out of brake fluid or something broke,” one commenter shared. 

“Could be low brake fluid, failing brake booster, ABS system malfunction, or a problem with the hybrid brake system (if your Camry is hybrid). I’d get it towed to be safe. I hope this helps. Be safe,” another added. 

“It means your hybrid has a serious issue with your braking system. Faulty brake booster pump or actuator. Low brake fluid or leaks in the brake system. Sensor or ECU malfunction in brake control system. Failure in the vacuum pump. Regenerative braking fault. Don't drive! Call a tow tow truck,” a third replied. 

Gallery: 2018 Toyota Camry

What Does the Low Braking Power Warning Sign Mean?

When the low braking power warning sign comes on, it’s best to find a safe place to stop, as the dashboard mentions. 

According to this YouTube breakdown, modern Toyotas have improved braking systems that provide extra support when trying to stop suddenly to avoid an accident. Usually, issues with the brakes involve brake fluid, rotors, or pads. However, Toyota does have advanced technology that makes diagnostics a little more complex. 

“When a Toyota’s braking system isn’t receiving the necessary vacuum, the Braking Power Low message appears. Modern Toyotas use a separate vacuum pump to create the vacuum. If there is not enough pressure, the warning light will turn on,” YouTuber Car PROblems says. 

It may be hard to press the pedal, leading to stiff brakes. This will diminish the braking force, and there may not be enough power to stop the car fully. With the integration of new technology, there are many more potential problems with brakes that can occur with electrical equipment and vacuum configuration. 

A variety of issues can cause the light to go on:

• Broken Vacuum Pump: The vacuum power required for the brakes to operate is provided by vacuum hoses. Over time, any hose will experience cracks and kinks. When air escapes through the holes, the vacuum may not operate properly. 
• Faulty Brake System: You may experience spongy brakes, which happen when the vacuum pressure leaks. Diminished power can also occur, leading to a dragging or sticking feeling. Additionally, it's possible a piston or seal has been harmed and needs to be addressed immediately. 
• Faulty Vacuum Pump: If a vacuum pump is defective, it will eliminate the air in the vacuum booster. If the air is gone, the vacuum loses power, and braking capabilities decrease. 
• Faulty Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Control Module: By opening and closing the booster valves, the ABS control module manages the amount of braking force. If the low braking warning sign is on, it may mean ABS randomly activates, leading to braking difficulty and errors.  

Toyota Camry Braking System Recall

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall, Toyota did issue a major recall for 227,000 2018 and 2019 Camry models to address the issues with the vehicles' braking systems.

“The subject vehicles have a system that provides power brake assist when the driver depresses the brake pedal. Specific components in a part of this system can prematurely wear and could lead to a sudden loss of power braking assist. Non-power assisted braking will remain functional. However, a sudden loss of power braking assist while driving could increase the risk of a crash,” per the NHTSA. 

The recall also mentions that Toyota dealers will inspect the vacuum pump and will fix, repair, or replace it free of charge. 

Motor1 has contacted Khalifa via Instagram and TikTok direct message. The story will be updated if she replies.