Spotting signs of brake issues before your brakes go out on you is vital. Southcross Auto Service has these tips to help you recognize serious brake concerns early so you can get the brakes inspected and repaired.
Brake Fluid Leaks
Brake fluid looks a lot like engine oil if you’ve never seen it leaking before, but it tends to show up around your car’s wheels. The big problem with leaking brake fluid is that your car’s brakes need every bit of that fluid to help the car to stop safely. When brake fluid is leaking, it’s possible that there’s something wrong and that air has gotten into the lines as well.
Brake Warning Lights
Occasionally you might see warning lights for your car’s brakes on the dashboard. The light might be the same one that lights up when you have the parking brake engaged, or there might be a separate light, especially one that says “ABS.” If you see the brake light and you’re sure the parking brake isn’t on, there could be something wrong with the brakes.
Strange Noises While Braking
When you press the brake pedal, you probably hear some noise but not a lot. If there’s an issue with the brakes you are more likely to hear some strange noises, including squealing and grinding sounds. Some of those, especially if they’re new sounds, are likely to be a bit scary to hear. Any time you’re hearing new noises in your car, it’s good to get them checked out.
Vibrations When Stopping
Another possible issue when your car’s brakes need attention is that you feel vibrations or extreme shaking when you apply the brakes. Normal brake operation doesn’t do that, but when there are unevenly worn brake pads or the rotor needs turning, that can cause vibrations that you feel through the steering wheel. The harder you’re trying to stop, the worse those vibrations are likely to be.
No Brakes at All
The worst feeling in the world probably has to be when you press down on the brake pedal and the pedal goes all the way to the floor without slowing the car down. You’re always going to feel some pressure in the brake pedal, so if you don’t, that’s a huge issue. The emergency brake may be your best option to stop, if pumping the brakes doesn’t put some pressure back in the brake lines. You should not drive the car again until you get the brakes inspected and make sure you’ll be able to stop.
Need your car’s brakes inspected? Contact us today at Southcross Auto Service in Savage, MN. We’ll be happy to take a look for you and get you safely back to driving.
