Common Problems That Require Brake Repair

Brake repair is called for due to many different circumstances. A motorist must always keep their vehicle’s braking system in tip top shape in order to keep themselves, their passengers and all others on the road safe. One way to ensure safety is to have a mechanic perform regular service checks on all components of the braking mechanisms. Another way is to have maintenance or repairs completed as soon as anything goes wrong. It is important to never put off service on these crucial devices.

Some common problems include:

- Low or leaking fluid levels: If a car’s pads are worn away, the fluid in the reservoir may be a bit low. In this case, it’s time to replace the pads or brake shoes. If the pads are not worn out, it must be something else. If the car has recently been serviced, a bleeder valve may have been left a bit loose. For this problem, a little tightening will fix the leak. If that’s not it, some detective work to find the leak will have to be done. Parking a vehicle on an even surface and noting where the liquid is dripping out from will help to pinpoint the problem. If it is pooling toward the back of the engine, the problem may stem from the master cylinder. A leaky system needs to be taken in to the shop for a brake repair appointment right away.

- Warning light is on: It is normal for a warning light to come on briefly and can be known as a bulb check. If it stays on, however, this may be a red flag of a potential problem. Some possible answers may be as simple as the emergency brake being accidentally left on or as complicated as a pressure leak. If it’s not the emergency brake, it's probably time to get it to the shop.

- Squeaking system: When an automobile’s braking system begins to squeak, it may be the sign of a problem. It certainly is distressing for a driver to hear this high pitched sound, as this is one of the worst automotive parts to go bad. This squeaky noise may be a sign that the halting devices are indeed going bad and should be checked out by a trusted mechanic. If that’s not the case, however, it could be due to reasons which do not pertain to safety but rather to the environment. Examples of environmental noise inducers include high humidity, exposure to dust and sand or even cold weather. If it is determined by a certified mechanic to be environmental rather than a worn out part, the sound can be minimized by applying a cream to the pad, sanding off the rubbing culprits or even just using another type of pad.

Brake repair should be performed as soon as possible for any of these common problems or others that are more complex. While some of the more common signs of a problem may turn out to be something simple, others are a matter of safety and can be a danger. Let a trained professional make the call.