Some brake repair issues can be identified early on. Outlined are a number of possible ABS problems that you can identify yourself.
Are you having a minor issue with your brakes? Some common issues can be detected and identified by you,
making brake repair or replacement a much easier ordeal. Here are a few detailed issues to help you recognize what’s wrong with your car.
Low Fluid
This is a common problem that can be caused by a number of things. Worn pads are sometimes the cause of a leak in the brake system. Low fluid is usually indicated by the appearance of your Brake Warning Light on your instrument panel. If this light appears, all aspects of your ABS need to be inspected for leaks, including wheel cylinders, hoses and lines, master cylinder and calipers. If there is in fact a leak, replace the faulty component before operating your car again.
Low Pedal
If you have a drum based friction system, sometimes the shoe adjusters can rust or become stuck. this causes them to lose their effectiveness in resisting lining wear. This can cause the pedal to sit lower than usual. Fixing this problem usually involves a simple adjustment of the rear drums. If this type of brake repair is beyond your skill level, seek out qualified help from someone you trust.
Soft Pedal
If your pedal seems to be responding in a spongy or soft type of manner, it can mean that air has entered the ABS. This is the result of fluid loss or an irregularly low fluid level, or as an effect of improper brake bleeding. A proper bleeding based on your particular ABS can solve the problem quickly and won't necessitate full-on brake repair.
Pedal Pulsation
If your pedal is pulsating or shaking when pressure is applied, this means that a brake rotor is warped and needs to be replaced or resurfaced.
Scraping Sounds
Unlike a somewhat harmless squeaking sound, scraping noises should be considered with caution. This usually is a sign of metal-on-metal contact because of a worn out pad or shoe components. These sounds should be investigated into immediately, as your car is in dangerous condition to drive and needs an extensive brake job overhaul.
Squeal
If your brakes are squealing, it can be caused by vibrations between the pads and the caliper or rotor. Eliminating this sound is easy, and be done by replacing or resurfacing either the pads or rotors, and sometimes both. If that’s too costly, there are also other methods to conquering this noise. Noise dampening shims can be placed behind the pads, or a number of noise control compounds or high temperature grease can be applied to the rotors and pads.
Grabby Brakes
If you’re experiencing a jerky sort of sensation while braking, it’s because of oil, fluid or grease on the pads. This causes them to slip and grab. This problem can be remedied by replacing the contaminated pad and eliminating the source of the slippery fluid. The fluid could be seeping in through a leaky caliper or close oil leak. If your drums or rotors are badly scored, this can also cause grabby or uneven brakes. In this case, simply resurface the rotors.
Most issues should be handled by an automobile professional, but early detection and inspection can give you an edge when repairing your car. Pay close attention to your brakes to keep them in good condition!
