Being able to recognize potential problems before they turn into something serious is essential to cost-efficient automotive maintenance. Since your vehicle’s brakes are one of the most critical safety components, being able to identify when there is an issue can help you avoid costly brake repair services as well as car breakdowns. In fact, being able to understand when to when to seek auto brake care can significantly extend the life of your brake system and your vehicle.
8 Signs You Are Due For Professional Brake Service
At Metric Motors, we offer complete brake services. Our professional auto repair mechanics have seen it all when it comes to faulty brakes. To help you avoid costly repairs and breakdowns, in this blog, we are going to review eight signs you are due for professional brake service.
Abnormal Noises
Any abnormal sounds coming from the breaks is an indication of a serious issue with the system. Common noises you may hear include grinding, screeching, or thumping. Scheduling routine brake checks for your vehicle will help identify the source of the noise and address the issue before it turns into a serious issue.
Leaking Brake Fluid
Noticing a puddle that looks similar to motor oil may be a sign of an issue with your brakes. Brake fluid, while it looks very similar to oil, appears more oily and is more yellow than it is brown. In order to stop appropriately, vehicles need to maintain the proper brake fluid level. A brake fluid leak should be seen as an emergency and serviced by a professional auto repair mechanic as soon as possible. Additionally, vehicles without brake fluid should not be driven as this is a risk to your safety as well as the safety of others on the roads.
Difficulty Stopping
If your vehicle seems to be struggling to come to a complete stop, it could be an issue with the brakes. If you have noticed the distance your vehicle needs to stop has increased, your brake pads are likely worn and due for service. If your car’s brakes seem to be struggling, have a brake expert replace the pads and inspect the brake line to ensure that you’re protected from the risk of fender benders.
Vibrating or Pulsating Pedal
If you notice pulsating or vibrating sensation through your foot on the brake pedal or your hands on the steering wheel, the cause may be worn brakes, get them checked out by a professional. Generally, Typically, these vibrating sensations are due to a problem with the brake rotors. When the rotors become warped, bent, or damaged, the brake pads don’t have a smooth surface to push against, which causes the vibration. If you notice vibrating on your vehicles pedal, especially when stopping, have an auto repair mechanic perform a brake inspection.
Decreased Resistance
After driving your vehicle for some time, you become accustomed to the way the components feel, from the size and shape of the steering wheel to the resistance of the brake pedal. If you notice a change in how hard you need to press down the pedal to brake to slow down or stop, schedule a professional brake inspection.
Poor Handling
When a vehicle’s brakes are healthy, the drive should not notice any changes to their vehicles direction when they begin to come to a stop. However, some brake problems can cause sudden jerks or pulls to one side or the other when applying pressure to the brakes. This difference in handling can make the vehicle more difficult to control, therefore making it a risk to operate. Generally, this issue requires a brake line replacement or brake fluid replacement to fix since the pulling occurs when the linings sustain uneven wear or the fluid is contaminated by too much foreign matter.
Burning Rubber Odor
The smell of burning rubber is hard to ignore, especially when driving. If you begin to smell burning rubber when you use your brakes in normal driving situations, the system may have significant damage. This may be due to your brakes being worn down to the point that they cannot effectively create friction without grinding into the rubber pads. This issue may require a brake pad replacement. In certain situations, your auto repair mechanic may recommend switching to a higher-quality brake pad to avoid similar issues in the future.
Vehicle Vibration
If your vehicle is shaking or vibrating when applying pressure to the breaks, it likely due to a brake problem. If this problem roots from a brake issue like a worn rotor, you will most likely feel the vibration only when applying pressure to the brakes. Noticing vibrations at other times, though, you should have the issue evaluated by a professional, but the problem is more likely to be due with an alignment issue rather than the brake.
In addition to bringing your vehicle to an auto repair shop when you notice these signs of brake problems, it is beneficial to follow brake care recommendations from your mechanic and vehicle manufacturer. Generally, most manufacturers recommend replacing your brake fluid every two years or 30,000 miles and your brake pads every 20,000 to 60,000 miles.
If you are searching for brake service in Loveland, CO, head over to Metric Motors. From brake pad replacement to a brake fluid flush, our professional mechanics will ensure your vehicle’s brake system is healthy and ready for the road. To learn more or to schedule a service appointment, contact us!
