Your car’s braking system is its most critical safety feature. Keeping your brakes in optimal condition is essential for your safety and the safety of others on the road. Regular brake maintenance is crucial, and we’re here to provide expert brake repair services. In this blog, we’ll cover the top signs indicating that your car needs immediate brake repair, helping you stay safe and prevent costly repairs. Keep reading to learn when it’s time for brake service!
Squealing or Grinding Noises
If you hear squealing or grinding noises when braking, it clearly indicates that your brake pads may be worn out. Squealing suggests that the pads are thinning, while grinding indicates they’re worn down to the metal. It’s crucial to address these sounds promptly to prevent further damage to your braking system.
Shaking
Is your car shaking when you brake or drive at certain speeds? Don’t overlook this warning sign! It could mean your brakes are failing, and delaying repairs will worsen the damage. Whether it’s a slight tremble or a pronounced shake, it’s time to visit your local body shop. Putting off this issue will only lead to a higher repair bill. Don’t compromise your safety—get those brakes checked today!
Warning Lights
These are important warning signs, as your dashboard alerts you when there’s an issue with your brakes. Two specific lights are related to the braking system:
- The ABS Light
- The Brake System Light
The Anti-Brake System (ABS) light indicates a potential problem with the “Anti-Lock Braking Computer” and is linked to safety features. It may illuminate if you brake suddenly or if your computer detects a fault. The Brake System light activates when the parking brake is engaged, there’s low brake fluid, or a problem exists with the ABS computer. If either of these lights appears, have a trained technician diagnose and resolve the issue promptly.
For brake repairs and auto transmission repair near Ohio, reach out to the trained technicians and experts at Clean Complete Auto Care & Transmissions.
Burning Smell
If you detect a strong chemical odor after braking repeatedly on a steep incline, your brakes or clutch may be overheating. Pull over immediately, check that the parking brake is fully released, and allow your brakes to cool down. Failing to do so could cause your brake fluid to boil, potentially leading to failure. Additionally, if you see smoke coming from any of your wheels, it might indicate a stuck brake caliper, making it unsafe to continue driving.
Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal
If your brake pedal feels soft or spongy when pressed, it likely indicates air in the brake lines or an issue with the brake fluid. This condition can severely impair your braking effectiveness. It’s essential to have professionals thoroughly inspect and resolve any issues related to your brake fluid or lines.
Takes A Longer Time Or Distance Brake
If your vehicle takes noticeably longer to stop, you may be experiencing brake fade. Temporary brake fade can occur after continuous braking on steep declines, causing the pads and rotors to overheat. If this problem persists, it suggests advanced wear of the braking components, which may require replacements for optimal performance.
Car Going To The Left or Right
Suppose your car pulls to one side when braking; it may indicate an imbalance in brake application on either side. This could result from uneven wear of brake components or malfunctioning hardware, such as a jammed caliper or a defective wheel cylinder. It’s crucial to address these issues immediately and replace the brake parts to ensure safe braking.
Final Thoughts
All these signs indicate that you need to see a mechanic promptly to address the issue before it escalates. Always pay attention to how your brakes feel and check the warning lights on your dashboard.
If you continue to experience any of these signs, reach out to Clean Complete Auto Care & Transmissions for brake repair or other auto repair services in Strongsville and over all Ohio.
