Without a doubt, your brake system is the most important safety system in your automobile. We here at Hightech Automotive don’t even want to think about what would happen if you couldn’t stop your car. Your brakes need servicing when your owner’s manual says they need servicing, but things can go wrong in the meantime. Here are signs your brakes are going bad and need servicing.
Brake Light
Your brake light turns on when you start your car and set the parking brake. Other than that, you shouldn’t see this light illuminated on your dashboard. The same is true for the ABS light, which only turns on when you start the car. If either of these lights turn on at any other time, you have a problem.
Burning Odors
Burning chemical or carpet odors are a dangerous sign. The chemical odors suggest that the brake fluid is boiling. The carpet odors mean the brake pads have glazed. Your brake system is overheating and about to fail. You need a brake inspection and service but stop driving your automobile first to avoid danger.
Leaking Fluid
Brake fluid is nearly clear when it’s new and it turns dark brown as it gets older. Brake fluid will leak around your wheels if you have a brake fluid leak. This is a sign that your brake lines or master cylinder are leaking and need to be replaced as soon as possible.
Pulling
Your automobile will pull to the side when you apply the brakes if you have a stuck caliper. The direction of your vehicle should never change even though you are slowing down and stopping.
Spongy Pedal
Changes in how your brake pedal feels are also a sign that your brakes need servicing. Your brake pedal may feel soft or spongy, or it may sink all the way to the floor. You might have air in the brake lines or your master cylinder may be failing. Your brake pedal should always give you the same resistance.
Strange Sounds
Strange sounds, such as grinding and squealing, are an indication that your brakes need servicing. These sounds can be caused by brake pads that have worn down past their lifespan that need to be replaced. Your brakes will also squeal constantly if they are overheating.
Vibrations
Finally, vibrations in your steering wheel or brake pedal can indicate that you have worn brake pads, a rock stuck in a caliper, or problems with the rotor surfaces. This is also a sign that your brakes need to be serviced.
Hightech Automotive in Forest City, NC, are automotive service and repair experts, including brakes. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment for a brake inspection.