It’s important to know the common signs of brake problems so you can have them addressed right away. We here at Advanced Automotive never want you to experience the fear of losing your brakes. Generally, you should have your brakes inspected every 12,000 miles. This helps us prevent the following from happening.
ABS/Brake Warning Light
If your antilock brake system is malfunctioning, your ABS light will turn on. If the brake system is malfunctioning, your Brake light will turn on. The only time you shouldn’t worry about these lights turning on is when you first start your car and when you set the parking brake.
Hot or Burning Smells When Braking
If you smell hot or burning odors when you apply the brakes, pull over to a safe space and stop driving your automobile. This is a sign that your brake system is overheating. Once the system reaches a certain temperature, your brakes will fail and you won’t be able to stop your automobile.
Leaking Brake Fluid
Brake fluid leaks around your wheels. You will see brown or red spots on your garage floor. The reason why the bad guys always cut the brake lines in action movies is that your car can’t stop without brake fluid. In other words, have any leaks fixed ASAP.
Side-Pulling When Braking
If your vehicle changes direction when you apply the brakes, you may have a problem with one of the calipers. Your vehicle should continue to go straight instead of veering to the side when you press down on the brake pedal.
Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal
Your brake pedal should always give you the same resistance. It should also stop about one and 1/2 inches from your floorboard. If the pedal feels soft, spongy, or sinks to the floor, your master cylinder may be going out.
Strange Noises When Braking
Squealing sounds when you apply the brakes could be an indication that the brakes are overheating or you need to replace your brake pads. Grinding sounds are definitely an indication that you need to replace your brake pads, as are scraping sounds.
Strange Vibrations When Braking
Finally, your vehicle shouldn’t shake or vibrate when you apply the brakes. If it does, you may have a rock stuck in a caliper or your rotor surfaces may be warped.
Call Advanced Automotive in Stanwood, WA, today for a brake inspection if it has been over 12,000 miles since your last one or if you are experiencing any of the problems listed above.
