Something that requires repairs from time to time, brakes are a part of any vehicle maintenance, due to the constant use. To ensure the brakes are operating to their full potential, they require routine services and replacement because of the lifespan of the brake parts. We at Top Notch Body Shop & Mechanic would like to share today some signs that indicate your brakes need attention sooner than later.
Brakes are Squeaking & Grinding
The sound is very distinct as it makes contact with the rotor as the sound of the brake pads that are worn usually manifest with a high-pitched noise and being made of steel. To avoid serious damage, you need the brake pads replaced as soon as possible. The product of several issues can come from the grinding you feel in the pedal. The metal on metal could be creating grooves in the brake rotor, if the brake pads are severely worn down, however. Caught in the caliper unit, there is also lack of lube, or even something as simple as gravel or rocks. You should schedule a brake service to make the necessary repairs in any case.
Brake System Warning Light Comes On
Indicating you are due for an inspection or there is a problem that needs attention, the dashboard lights, either red or yellow brake. Call an expert for brake services in any case, though you can consult your manual for specific.
Vibration While Braking
When you apply the brakes, an uneven rotor frequently causes the steering wheel to shake or vibrate. The brake rotors are the big discs that sit inside of the wheels. Because the brake pads hug the rotors to stop the vehicle’s motion when the brake pedal is used, it is important the rotors are smooth and completely even in thickness. When you feel as you brake, there are causes stemming from the brakes mechanical elements that lead to the wobbling, scraping, or vibrating.
Leaking Brake Fluid
As the look for leaking fluid coming from the brake system, a soft brake pedal indicates a leak a service technician can identify. To create the power for your brakes, it will likely be leaking from the master cylinder. When you apply the brakes to create hydraulic pressure, the master cylinder is a reservoir for the brake fluid that is pushed through thin piping. There can be a loss of power that should force the brake pads to clamp hard to the rotors without the fluid.
Soft Brake Pedal
When you notice a difference in the resistance in the brake pedal as it feels spongy or soft is a major red flag your brakes need immediate attention. Experiencing air or moisture in the braking system, or the master cylinder is inflicted, it is likely the pedal sinking all the way to the floor mat when you press on it. As soon as possible, expert brake services are needed.
Vehicle Pulls to One Side when Braking
When cars pull to one side, a brake hose gone bad, or a caliper problem is usually the issue. One brake caliper may be applying more or all the pressure during braking resulting in unbalanced stopping.
Brakes Smell Like Burning
After repeated hard braking on steep roads, a sign of overheated brakes or clutch, is the sharp, chemical odor. Once you pull over immediately to safe place, check your parking brake to make sure it’s fully released and allow the brakes to cool. You risk heating up the brake fluid to boiling that results in brake failure, otherwise.
