If the ABS or Brake light is illuminated on the dashboard all the time, your vehicle’s brake system is telling you it is having problems. Hightech Automotive can inspect the brake system and make any necessary repairs. Aside from a dashboard warning, here are other signs that your brake system is going bad. Don’t take chances with the brakes. You need to be able to stop your automobile at all times.
Leaking Brake Fluid
Leaking brake fluid will land on the garage floor around the wheels. This is a sign that the brake hoses are leaking or that you have a problem with the master cylinder. Without the master cylinder, you will be unable to stop your automobile. Low brake fluid also makes it difficult to stop the vehicle.
Loud Brake Noises
Loud noises when you apply the brakes such as grinding or squealing can be an indication that the brake pad surfaces are too low and it’s time to replace the brake pads. Unfortunately, squealing brakes can also be a sign that the brakes are overheating. Let’s talk about this next.
Overheating Brakes
Overheating brakes are dangerous. When the brake system gets too hot, it will fail. Aside from squealing, hot odors coming from the brakes are an indication that the brake system is overheating. Specifically, you may smell burning carpet or a strong chemical odor.
Pulling to the Side
If your car, truck, or utility vehicle pulls to the side when you apply the brakes, this is a sign that one of the brake calipers is stuck. This is a rare occurrence, but it can happen. The only other time your vehicle will pull to the side is if the wheels are not aligned correctly.
Shaking or Vibration
If your car, truck, or C/SUV shakes, vibrates, or wobbles when you apply the brakes, there could be a small rock stuck in the caliper or there may be a problem with the rotors. Specifically, if the rotor surfaces are warped, your vehicle may vibrate when you apply the brakes.
Spongy or Soft Pedal
Finally, the brake pedal’s resistance should not change. If it does, you may have air in the brake lines, a faulty master cylinder, or another problem with the brake system. Usually, instead of getting too hard to press down, the brake pedal gets soft and spongy.
Hightech Automotive in Forest City, NC, would be happy to inspect your brake system. Call us today to set up a service appointment.