If you’re able to depress the brake pedal fully and then release it with no resistance, your car probably has a problem with the brakes. If the pedal feels like it’s hard to get down at first, or you hear a grinding noise when you depress it, your brakes may be worn out. If your car doesn’t have ABS (anti-lock braking system) it will stop only if you hit the gas pedal while simultaneously depressing the brake pedal.