When it comes to car usage and maintenance, car brakes are an important part that must not be neglected. Driving around with bad brakes can be very hazardous, leading to brake failures and ultimately, accidents. Hence regular brake servicing and sometimes, replacement is advised. Thankfully, more often than not, before brakes go on to fail, they give warning signs.
So, let’s look at 5 warning signs that your brakes are worn and due for servicing or a change.
Brake Light On:
While this may be normal if your parking brake is engaged, your brake light shouldn’t be on when your parking brake is not engaged. If your brake light appears on your dashboard without engaging your parking brake, this is an indicator that you need to get your brakes checked. It may just be your brake system warning light, or your car’s way of letting you know that you have a problem. The Antilock braking system (ABS) warning light on your dash is a strong indicator that you need to get your car to a repair shop.
Squealing, Squeaking or Grinding Noises:
If you start to hear a metallic noise or squealing sound when you apply your brakes, this may mean that it is time to change your brake pads. Being made of steel, your brake pads making contact with your rotor is what gives off this sound. While this may not seem an imminent problem, you are better off changing the brake pads immediately as further wear could lead to damage to your rotor which is more expensive to repair. Grinding noises could be an indicator that you’ve allowed your brake pads to wear completely. This is not a good sign as it could mean that your rotor is already getting affected. You should look into it immediately.
Vibration, Wobbling When You Brake:
If your steering wheel starts to wobble or if you feel a vibration when you apply your brakes, then you want to listen to your brake system – it has a message for you. These vibrations could be an indicator that your rotor is uneven and needs to be checked. It could also be that your brake caliper is not releasing properly. Another cause may be that your brake components are damaged. When you feel these vibrations or wobbles when applying your brakes, it simply means it is time to visit a repair shop like the Quicklane auto repair shop by Coscharis.
Leaking Fluid:
When your brake fluid begins to leak, it is time to replace your master cylinder. Your braking power comes from the hydraulic pressure between your master cylinder and the brake lines. So, if you’re experiencing a leakage, this could affect your braking power and ultimately cause a brake failure.
Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal:
If you apply your brakes and notice a lower resistance in the brake pedal, then you need to service your brakes immediately. Soft or spongy brake pedals are indicative of air or moisture in the braking system or a faulty master cylinder. Whatever the case may be, your brakes need urgent attention.
Any of these signs implies it’s time to change your brake system or pads to avoid risk to safety while driving and while avoiding damage to other car parts dependent on the brake pads. Lucky for you, you can learn how to change your brake pads by yourself in 5minslearn how to change your brake pads by yourself in 5mins with these simple steps.