Each time we drive our vehicle, we wear it down ever so slightly. Vehicles often need repairs and maintenance, and some areas more than others. Every single time you drive your vehicle, you will use your brakes. The braking system is a huge part of a vehicle and undergoes wear and tear every single day. It is easy to say that you must maintain your vehicle’s brake system. The two major elements of the braking system that does need regular maintenance are the brake pads and rotors. In general, brake pads need to be replaced every 25,000 miles and rotors need to be replaced about every 30,000 to 70,000 miles. However, most people do not keep track of the miles they put on their brake pads and rotors. Today, Top Notch Body Shop & Mechanics will share some of the common signs that you need to have your brake pads and or rotor replaced.
Brakes Squealing or Squeaking
When you can hear a squealing or squeaking noise coming from the brakes, this is often one of the first signs that your brake pads are wearing down. Squeaking noises while braking occurs when the pads have excessively worn down. This is a good time to have your brake pads checked and if needed, replaced. If you wait too long to replace the brake pads, eventually you will begin to damage the rotors. You do not want to have to replace rotors too soon as they are much more expensive and essential repair.
Brakes Grinding & Shaking
When you come to a stop and you can hear a grinding noise accompanied with a bit of vibration, this is often a sign your brake pads are past due for a replacement. Grinding is not a good noise as the worn down pads have begun to damage the rotors. If you do not replace the pad soon, you may be replacing both the pads and rotors. Do not wait much longer when you hear grinding and feel vibration when braking. This means you need your braking system repaired.
Longer Stopping Times
If you are coming to a stop and it is taking the vehicle longer to stop, this is another classic sign that it is time to have your brakes done. Longer stop time is not just pointing to the brake pads wearing down, but you may be low on braking fluid. Braking fluid can develop a leak which compromises your vehicle’s ability to stop. Longer stop time is not a good problem to have. You never know when you need to make a sudden stop on the road to avoid a major collision. Make sure to have your braking system thoroughly inspected if you notice a delay in brake time.
Auto Repair & Body Shop Services in Dallas, Texas (Just Minutes Away from Addison, Balch Springs, Carrollton, Cedar Hill, Coppell, DeSoto, Duncanville, Farmers Branch, Ferris, Garland, Grand Prairie, Grapevine, Irving, Lancaster, Lewisville, Mesquite, Ovilla, Richardson, Rowlett, Sachse, Seagoville, Sunnyvale & Wylie, TX)
If you notice any of these signs or your vehicle comes with a brake light indicator make sure to have your vehicle brakes checked. Stopping is so essential to your vehicle and everyone’s safety. If your brakes are not feeling great and need to be checked, contact Top Notch Body Shop & Mechanics and make an appointment for your vehicle today.
