How to Maintain Your Vehicle

Three Brake Trouble Warning Signs That You Can't Wish Away

Faulty brakes are one of those car problems that no driver wants to experience. You press down on the brake pedal, and you notice that your car isn't slowing down or stopping. That's when you realise that your brakes are bad and panic sets in.

The good news is that brakes seldom act up without showing early signs of trouble. If you want to stay ahead of brake problems, you need to know the warning signs of trouble and undertake brake repairs before it's too late.

There are so many symptoms of brake failure, and none should be ignored when noticed. Check out some common signs of brake issues below.

Brake Noise

Do you hear a squeaking, caterwauling or grinding noise when braking? When your brakes are functioning normally, they allow you to slow down or stop the vehicle without making any loud noises. That's why it is difficult to put up with loud brake noises when you are driving.

Squeaking or caterwauling noises are usually a sign that your brake pads have worn down and need to be replaced. A grinding noise, on the other hand, is typically caused by contact between the rotor disc and a section of the caliper. This is an indication that your brake pads or rotors are overly worn down.

Brake noises are some of the most obvious signs of brake trouble. Don't ignore the noises thinking they will stop by themselves. In fact, they can only get worse if ignored. 

Brake Warning Light Comes On

Most modern cars come with a range of vehicle warning lights on the dashboard. If you drive a modern car, one of the warning lights found on the dash of the vehicle is the brake warning light.

As its name says, this light is designed to come on when there is an issue with your car's braking system. If you see the light turn on when you apply the brakes, it's best to get the brakes checked. Your brake fluid level could be dangerously low, or the hydraulic pressure on one side of the braking system may have been lost.

Brake Fluid Leaks

Brake fluid is the vital fluid that provides the hydraulic pressure needed to move the various moving components of your braking system. Without it, you would not be able to slow down or halt your vehicle when you press the brake pedal.

If you spot brake fluid leaks underneath the vehicle, you should get the leaks identified and fixed before adding more of the fluid to the vehicle. Any part of the braking system where brake fluid flows is vulnerable to fluid leaks, but checking the location of the leaks can reveal where to start with the diagnostics and repair work.

If you notice one or more of the above-highlighted signs, seek out a brake repair specialist immediately. You can't afford to take chances when it comes to vehicle safety.


Share