Symptoms of Brake Failure:
When it comes to your car’s safety, brakes are at the top of the list of systems that need to be maintained. Worn brakes can cause longer stopping distances and difficult stopping in an emergency situation. Many people are not aware of the warning signs that indicate maintenance or repair may be needed.
Grinding: A metallic grinding sound indicates your brake pads are worn through. Continued driving with this condition not only causes further damage, it is also dangerous.
Squealing: A high pitch squeal noise heard at slow speed without brake pedal contact, means that the brake pads are down to the recommended wear replacement. There is a warning tab manufactured on the pad that rubs against the rotor to alert you. The noise usually goes away when the brake pedal is actuated.
Low or Fading Brake Pedal: Do you pump your brakes to stop? Does the pedal sink to the floor when you’re stopped at a light? You could have a leak, and air in the brake lines or the master cylinder is leaking internally. Any of these symptoms need to be addressed as soon as possible.
Pulling to One Side or Brake Drag: This condition is most often caused by stuck caliper slides or pistons. The stuck caliper will not apply the same pressure as the other. A properly working brake system requires even pressure to all wheels to stop safely and efficiently.
Brake Warning Lights: A brake warning light indicates a potential problem with your mechanical or antilock brake system and you should have your vehicle evaluated by a qualified ASE technician.
Remember to have your brakes checked any time you notice any of these conditions. At Lake South Automotive we have ASE technicians with the expertise and the proper diagnostic equipment to keep you and your family safe on the road.
Why Inspect Brakes?
A squealing or grinding noise should be investigated immediately. Brake performance has improved in recent years, but a large percentage of vehicle’s brakes are not checked regularly. Brake work performed before you hear those squeals can save many dollars in repairs. Worn brake pads that begin to connect metal-to-metal can cause other damage and add extra dollars in brake system overhaul.
What We Inspect:
- Brake lines
- Hoses
- Rotors
- Calipers
- Evaluate the condition of the brake fluid. If the brake fluid absorbs moisture it will become acidic. This can lead to deterioration of seals, and damage ABS module on vehicles equipped with Anti Lock Brakes.
- Check for leaks at master cylinder, lines, fittings, hoses, modules, and junction blocks.
- Check emergency brake adjustment.
