Never Ignore These 6 Warning Signs of Car Brake Problems
Brake servicing is one of those routine tasks you cannot ignore. Brakes parts require regular servicing and sometimes replacement when it becomes necessary.
But, it is one of the most overlooked and taken for granted mechanism on your car until you have a significant problem with your car. Due to the importance of this safety system ignoring the problems related to it can lead to more serious problems.
Fortunately, your vehicle gives you clear signals that your brakes are due. Sometimes it can be in the form of harmless noises that do not require repairs or simple fixes. Other times it can be otherwise.
The brakes of your car are one of the most important safety components of it. So, if you notice any of the below-given warning signs of brake issue, it is time to get the help of a professional. It is important for the safety of your car.
• Brake Light on
When the warning lights on the dashboard light up, it means you need to inspect your vehicle. It may also indicate that your vehicle’s smart electronic system is alerting you to a problem. So, you should take your car to a professional if you are unable to identify the reasons behind those blinking lights.
• Squealing, Squeaking
Suppose you are driving and then a hard-pitching noise starts and then ends when you apply the brakes, it is likely the sound of the brake pad wear indicators. They are made of steel so they make this sound when they get in touch with the rotor.
They are indicating you about the worn pads which require replacement before it comes to rotor damage, which can be an expensive fix.
• Wobbling, Vibration or Scraping when Braking
If you feel shaking in the steering wheel or vibration when you apply the brakes, it may be the result of an uneven rotor.
Brake rotors sit inside the wheels. When you push the brake pedal, the brake pads hug the rotors, slowing them and your vehicle. Rotors should be smooth and completely even in thickness.
Over time it is normal for the rotor surface to get slight variations. Rust can also sometimes appear. During the servicing of brakes, the face of the rotor is often trued to correct these flaws.
• Leaking Fluid
If you are experiencing a soft brake pedal, have a professional look for fluid leaking from the master cylinder or elsewhere in the brake system. The master cylinder creates the power for your brakes.
This fluid creates hydraulic pressure when you apply the brakes. If the fluid leakage is happening, there may not be enough power to force the brake pads to clamp hard to the rotors.
• Car Pulling to One Side when Braking
If you notice that car is pulling to one side while braking, it could be due to a brake hose gone bad or a caliper problem. One brake caliper may be applying more or all the pressure during braking, bringing about unbalanced stopping.
• Burning Smell when Driving
If you notice a sharp, chemical odor after repeated hard braking on steep roads it means brakes or clutch is overheated. You should pull over immediately to a safe place, make sure it is fully released and allow the brakes to cool. Failing to do so may result in the heating up of brake fluid to boiling, which can cause brake failure.
If the smoke is emanating from a wheel, it could be due to a stuck brake caliper.
