Are your brakes bad? Don’t wait to find out when you need them. Rather, look for signs that there is trouble afoot with your brake system. The parts will tell you if they need replacement and Meadows Automotive services and replaces all types of brake systems. Here some signs that will let you know your brakes are going bad. If you notice any of the below, bring your vehicle in for a brake inspection.
Most of the noise coming from your brakes will come from the brake pads. For example, as your pads wear down, they will begin to squeak or squeal as you drive. This mouse-sound will stop once you brake. Brakes can also squeak when they’re wet. The back of the brake pad system will grind when you apply the brakes if the pad material has worn completely down. Dirt or debris between the brake pads and the brake rotors can also cause a grinding sound. If your vehicle has rear drum brakes, they might need lubrication if you hear a grinding sound coming from your rear wheels when you brake.
Your vehicle will react differently when your brakes are going bad. For example, if one of your rotors is wearing down unevenly, your steering wheel or brake pedal may wobble when you brake. You shouldn’t feel any sensation at all in the brake pedal or steering wheel when you brake, except the normal resistance the brake pedal gives you. If you notice vibration or wobbling, or if your brake pedal doesn’t provide the normal resistance and sinks lower to the floor mat, something is going on with your brake system. It could be the rotors, air in the brake lines, or master cylinder failure.
Always check your garage floor when you back out in the morning to see if you have fluid leaks. To determine what the fluid is, check out our previous blog post on automobile fluid colors. If the fluid is brown and feels slick, it’s probably brake fluid. Leaking brake fluid means you have a hole in your brake lines or master cylinder. Get this checked out and fixed right away as your vehicle will not stop without brake fluid. If you notice a burning smell while or after braking, your brakes could be overheating and they will fail when too hot. Have any strange smells checked out right away to avoid disaster.
Located in Waterford Township, MI, Meadows Automotive are brake system experts. Call us today to set up a brake inspection.
