5 Warning Signs That Your Brakes Need Service
Your car's brakes are one of the most critical safety features, and it's essential to ensure they're always working correctly. However, brakes can wear out over time, and if they're not serviced regularly, it can lead to accidents. In this article, we will discuss the five warning signs that indicate that your brakes need service.
Squeaking or Grinding Noise
The most common sign of brake trouble is a squeaking or grinding noise. If you hear a high-pitched squeal when you apply your brakes, it's usually an indication that your brake pads are wearing thin. If you ignore this warning sign, the noise may become louder, and you may start hearing a grinding sound. This grinding sound is usually caused by the metal part of the brake pad rubbing against the rotor, which can cause serious damage to your brakes.
Vibration or Shaking while Braking
If you feel a vibration or shaking in your steering wheel or brake pedal when you apply your brakes, it's a sign that your rotors are warped or damaged. This can be caused by driving with worn-out brake pads, causing the metal to rub against the rotors, creating heat that can warp or damage them. If you experience this issue, it's best to get your brakes inspected by a professional mechanic immediately.
Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal
If your brake pedal feels soft or spongy, it's usually an indication of a problem with your brake fluid. The brake fluid is responsible for transferring the force you apply to the brake pedal to the brake pads, which allows your vehicle to stop. If the brake fluid level is low or contaminated with air, it can cause the brake pedal to feel spongy. This can be dangerous, as it can significantly impact your vehicle's stopping ability.
Pulling to One Side while Braking
If your vehicle pulls to one side when you apply your brakes, it's usually an indication that your brake pads are wearing unevenly. This can cause your vehicle to veer to one side when you apply the brakes, which can be dangerous, especially if you're driving at high speeds. If you experience this issue, it's best to have your brakes inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.
Burning Smell
If you smell a burning odor coming from your brakes, it's a sign that your brakes are overheating. This can be caused by driving with worn-out brake pads, which can cause excessive friction and heat, leading to brake fade or even a total loss of braking ability. If you smell a burning odor coming from your brakes, it's best to pull over immediately and have your brakes inspected by a professional mechanic.
Conclusion
Your brakes are an essential safety feature of your vehicle, and it's crucial to keep them in good condition. If you experience any of the warning signs mentioned above, it's best to have your brakes inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. By doing so, you can ensure your brakes are working correctly, which can help prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road.
When you need help with your vehicle, visit CARSTAR Robert's Collision in Monterey, CA, to learn more about why our community continues coming to us year after year. Please schedule an appointment with us today, and see what makes us so unique in the Monterey community!