Let’s rewind to 2009. At 21, I was driving a Ford Escape that felt like a dream—at least, that’s what its previous owners would have said, though it didn’t become mine until much later. That year, I also met the man who would be my partner for the next 13 years. But in 2022, a devastating accident left him paralyzed, with numerous complications that keep him bedridden and unable to speak, reliant on a trach. He was the smartest man I knew—capable of fixing any car problem and explaining it so thoroughly it left me speechless countless times. Now, even a simple video chat feels impossible, and I sense he’s avoiding the reminder of how much he’s changed. I just want him to remember the good times.
As for my car troubles, a couple of shops have told me it’s the brake pads, while others insist it’s the brake power booster. I’ve spent the night making calls, searching online, and watching YouTube videos. The noise inside my car when I try to brake is alarming, and braking itself has become so difficult. When I disconnect the hose from the power brake booster and hit the brake, the low hissing sound inside the car disappears, but I can still hear it under the hood (which makes sense since the hose isn’t connected). I’m reaching out to see if anyone here has tips or suggestions on whether the issue is with the brake pads or the power brake booster.
To make matters more challenging, due to the 2022 accident, I’m now raising three beautiful little girls. School supplies, clothes, and shoes are beyond our budget, so I can’t afford to drop my car at a shop where they might overcharge me because I’m a woman who doesn’t know much about cars. I’m worried they’ll tack on unnecessary charges and labor costs.
Any advice would be appreciated. It’s a 2009 Ford Escape Limited, 3.0 L, 6-cylinder. The brake issue escalated quickly, and I can barely drive. The kids are terrified in the back, crying and worried that I might hit another car. Braking has become so unreliable that I often have to pull over and wait until it feels safe to continue driving. Thanks in advance for any help.