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Brake maintenance - What's stopping you
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Read moreStop! Think! Pay attention to your brakes
Brake warning signs to look out for:
If you’re behind the wheel of a car, truck or SUV, it’s critical that your brakes are functioning at their peak level at all times. Not only do properly functioning brakes keep you and your passengers safe on the road, they also help prevent accidents and keep other drivers around you out of harm's way.
One way to ensure your brakes are in top condition is to regularly inspect them and watch out for any warning signs that could indicate your brakes need attention. In this article, we’ll cover ten of the most common brake warning signs to look out for so that you can stay safe and keep your vehicle running smoothly.
Reduction in Stopping Ability
If you notice at any time that your car takes longer to come to a stop, it could indicate that your brakes need attention. This issue could stem from various reasons, such as worn-out brake pads or rotors, a failing master cylinder, or low brake fluid. Any reduction in stopping ability requires urgent attention to prevent accidents.
Swerving Whenever Brakes Are Applied
One of the most concerning brake warning signs is when your car swerves or pulls to one side whenever you apply the brakes. This is often a sign that the brake pads are unevenly worn, a caliper is malfunctioning or that there is a problem with the brake fluid. A swerving vehicle can be incredibly dangerous, especially at high speeds, so be sure to address this issue as soon as possible.
Vibration Under Brake Application
Another sign that your brakes may need attention is if you feel a vibration in the pedal or steering wheel when you apply the brakes. This is usually a sign that the brake pads have worn unevenly, and the rotors are now out of balance. Vibration can cause handling problems, and it is essential to get this fixed as soon as possible.
Brake Pedal Seems Sticky
A brake pedal that seems to stick is a clear sign that there may be an issue with the brake fluid. When the brake fluid becomes contaminated, it can cause the brake lines to clog, leading to the brake pedal sticking when you try to apply it. A sticking brake pedal can cause unexpected braking or even a complete brake failure.
Brakes Produce Excess Noise
When you apply your brakes, do they produce a loud screeching, grinding or whistling noise? This is often a sign that your brake pads are wearing down and need to be replaced. Excess noise can also be a sign of brake pad contamination or a warped rotor. If you hear these sounds, take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic to have your brakes inspected.
Brake Light Warning
One of the easiest signs to spot that your brakes might need attention is the brake light warning on your dashboard. Typically, when your car's onboard computer detects any problems with your brake system, it illuminates the brake warning light on your dashboard. There could be several reasons why your brake light warning comes on. For example, it could indicate that the parking brake is still engaged or that your brake fluid levels are low. In some cases, it could indicate that your brake pads are worn out and need to be replaced. If you see the brake light warning, don't ignore it! It's best to have a professional mechanic diagnose and fix the problem to avoid any potential brake failure.
Brake Pedal Seems Spongy
Another common sign that your brakes need attention is a spongy brake pedal. If you step on your brake pedal and it feels soft or mushy, it could indicate air in your brake lines or that your brake fluid is contaminated. Contaminated brake fluid could be due to moisture getting into your brake lines or other debris. Whatever the cause may be, it's essential to address the issue promptly before your brakes completely fail.
Hard Brake Pedal
Lastly, a hard brake pedal is another common sign that your brakes need attention. A hard brake pedal could indicate a failing power brake booster, which provides extra braking power when you step on your brake pedal. If you have a hard brake pedal, it's essential to get it inspected and fixed by a professional mechanic before the problem worsens.
your brakes are crucial for your car's safety, and you should always keep an eye out for any warning signs that your brakes need attention. The brake warning signs we've covered above are just a few examples of what you need to look out for. As a responsible driver, it's crucial to get your brakes inspected and fixed promptly to ensure your safety and the safety of everyone on the road.
