Brake Repair: Trouble Shooting

There are several signs that something could be wrong with your brakes, and while you may not be able to perform brake repair procedures on your own, knowing when to seek a professional opinion and what to expect when you take your vehicle to the shop can not only save you anticipation and anxiety, but it can also save you some hard earned cash.

Although every problem cannot be detected by a handy dash board warning light, some major problems can be avoided if you pay attention to the factory installed dash board warning system. This light, when illuminated, may indicate low fluid, a hydraulic pressure loss, or a glitch in your parking or emergency brake. Trusting the light for the former two suggestions and having this minor work done now will save you major time, brake repair costs, and danger in the long run. The latter parking brake scenario can usually be addressed without a mechanic, and can often mean that the cables are tight and need a little use. Sometimes the warning light lights up simply when it is time to perform regular maintenance. Trust the light!

Squealing or grinding upon pedal application is cause for immediate concern and action. Squealing may be the symptom of build up on the pads and/or the rotors, and if it is addressed efficiently, major and costly repairs can be avoided. A grinding sound is more of an issue and usually indicates that somewhere in the braking system that metal is rubbing metal. In this situation, you should expect the replacement of pads, rotors, and shoes in addition to drum repair. Keep in mind that having to spend money for the proper reasons essentially means saving your life and the lives of others. Do not delay.

If you notice a difference in how much pressure is needed to slow or stop the vehicle, your pedal is trying to send you a message. You may have poorly adjusted rear drums or your power assist may not be functioning well if at all. Trapped air in the system may also be the culprit.

If you feel a pulling sensation upon application of the brake pedal, several issues could be to blame, and you should have a complete maintenance check performed on your vehicle immediately. Following this, a brake repair may be in order.

Keeping your car’s braking system in proper working condition may be the most important maintenance you can provide for your vehicle. While poor maintenance can keep your car from running efficiently and correctly or from running at all, overlooked braking issues can cause accidents that put your life and the lives of others at extreme and immediate risk.