It is important to have any brake problems in your car, truck, or utility vehicle repaired right away. As you know, the brake system is the most important safety system in your vehicle. If you are having any of the issues discussed below, bring your vehicle to our auto repair shop as soon as possible.
Brake Fluid Leaks
Brake fluid can leak out of the brake lines or the master cylinder. Usually, the fluid leaks out of lines that are too old and have cracked. We can replace the old brake lines to stop the fluid from leaking out of them. We can also replace the master cylinder if this is from where the brake fluid is leaking.
Braking System Noises
Your brakes will start to make noises if they are overdue for maintenance or are overheating. The most common sounds you hear from a brake system are squealing and grinding. Both of these noises can be made by brake pads that need to be replaced. The brakes will also squeal if they are too hot.
Dashboard Warning
You may end up with the engine control module turning on a brake system light to warn you that there is a problem. Specifically, the dashboard is equipped with two lights that apply to the brake system. These lights are the ABS and Brake lights. If either turns on, head straight to our shop.
Getting Too Hot
We mentioned above that the brakes will squeal if they are getting too hot. In addition to the annoying sound, the brake system will also start to smell extremely hot. You may detect odors that smell like chemicals if the brake fluid is too hot or carpets if the brake pads are too hot.
Shaking/Wobbling
If you have a piece of road debris stuck in one of the brake calipers, your vehicle may shake, wobble, or pull to the side when you apply the brakes. This movement can also occur if the rotor surfaces need to be recut because they are warped. If they are warped severely, the rotors will need to be replaced.
Strange Pedal Sensations
Finally, the brake pedal can start to feel strange underneath your foot if the master cylinder is dying or you have air in the brake lines. Specifically, the brake pedal will feel soft and give or take as you press down on it.
To prevent any of these brake problems, bring your automobile to our shop every 12,000 miles for a brake inspection.