We spend so much time focused on ensuring our vehicles accelerate and corner properly that we can forget we also need them to stop – on a dime. The brake system is vitally important to your vehicle’s proper functioning and safety, so the need to pay attention to the warning signs of potential brake system problems is worth a friendly reminder.
How Brakes Work
The typical motor vehicle has its braking system as part of the front wheel assemblies. The systems include rotors or metal discs within each wheel and associated calipers or clamping devices. When you apply the brakes, the clamps cause the brake pads to squeeze against the rotors, causing friction and forcing the wheel to slow or stop. Because your brakes deal with intense forces and generate heat, some parts wear out and need replacing so the broader braking system continues functioning.
Braking System Warning Signs
Some warning signs of potential brake problems involve noises, while others reflect your vehicle’s behavior, often when you apply the brakes.
Grinding Noise
If you hear a grinding noise when you press the brake pedal, you must have someone inspect your brakes. The grinding noise is likely due to worn brake pads and may indicate severe wear that needs immediate attention.
Squealing Noise
Whereas the grinding noise may occur when you press the brake pedal, you may hear a squealing noise that disappears when the brake pedal is depressed. Under this scenario, the squeal likely comes from a wear indicator built into the braking system that is revealed and pressed against the rotors when you have heavily worn brake pads. The wear indicator does not damage the rotors but indicates that you should have your brakes inspected immediately.
Vehicle Takes Longer to Stop
You may recognize that your brakes are less responsive than they were in the past, and your car travels farther before stopping. Known as “brake fade,” this condition often occurs among vehicles used in hilly or mountainous areas or among drivers who ride their brakes. In each situation, the brake pads and rotors are in contact with one another for extended periods, causing enough friction that the heat changes the conditions of the components, so the brakes become less able to brake properly. This situation needs the attention of a qualified mechanic as well.
Vibrating Brake Pedal
Brakes that have experienced too much heat may have resins become unevenly distributed on the rotor. This condition results in the brake pads squeezing more effectively against some parts of the rotor than others, and the cycling through those areas causes vibration.
Vehicle Pulls to One Side
Your brake pads and other components do not always wear evenly on both sides of the vehicle. When one brake works more effectively than the other, it indicates a problem with your braking system. As with the other warning signs, you should get your brakes evaluated immediately.
Let Us Inspect Your Brakes in Leander, TX
AEW Automotive Service and Repair is proud to be the top choice in Leander, TX, for your vehicle maintenance and repair needs. We handle routine maintenance and more extensive auto repairs, all provided honestly and reliably. To ensure your vehicle is in top-notch condition, call us today at 512-886-8991 to schedule an appointment!
