Your brakes are one of your vehicle’s most important safety features. As a driver, you must ensure your car’s brakes function properly. Neglecting to maintain your vehicle’s braking system can lead to costly repairs or dangerous accidents. Pay attention to the signs that your brakes may need to be serviced for your safety and the safety of your passengers and drivers.
Generally, your car’s brake pads should be replaced every 40,000 to 100,000 kilometers (25,000 to 65,000 miles), while your rotors should be replaced between 50,000 and 110,000 kilometers (30,000 and 70,000 miles). However, this is just a guideline. The exact distance can vary depending on your driving style, terrain, and weather conditions.
Here are some signs that your brakes need attention right now:
1. High-Pitched Screeching or Grinding Noise
If you hear strange sounds when you press down on the brake pedal, particularly a high-pitched screeching or squealing sound, this is a warning sign that your brake pads are beginning to wear out. There’s no need to panic – your car brakes aren’t going to give out at any second. However, if you’re hearing a screeching sound, you should promptly plan to replace your brake pads. A grinding or growling noise indicates metal-on-metal contact, which can cause serious damage to your calipers or rotors. Get your brakes serviced as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs.
2. Reduced Stopping Response
When you press your foot to the brake pedal, you should feel an immediate response and reduction in speed. If you feel like your brakes don’t seem to respond as quickly as they used to, this indicates an issue. It might seem like your brake pedal sinks toward the floor when you apply pressure, or it feels soft and spongy when you press down. A reduced stopping response usually indicates a leak in your car’s braking system. It could be an issue with the brake fluid or air in the brake lines. Leaks can be dangerous because they reduce the brake system’s efficiency.
3. Vehicle Pulling to One Side
Does it feel like your vehicle pulls more to one side when you press the brakes? There could be a few culprits. This may suggest uneven wear on the brake pads, issues with the brake fluid, a collapsed brake hose, or an issue with the brake lining. It’s crucial to find out the root cause and repair your front brake immediately to prevent further wear and tear on your vehicle.
4. Vibrations
When you hit the brakes, your car should smoothly roll to a stop. If you feel vibrations in the brake pedal or steering wheel, especially during hard braking, this is often an indicator of warped rotors. If your car shakes or you feel vibrations when you apply the brakes, it’s time to have your vehicle serviced.
5. Warning Light
Many modern vehicles come equipped with a warning light that illuminates your dash when there’s a problem with your car’s braking system. If you see this light, this is a clear sign that something is amiss. Don’t ignore this warning! Get your brakes checked right away.
6. Leaking Fluid
Check under your vehicle. Do you see a pool of liquid? If you notice a small puddle of fluid after your car has been parked, this could be brake fluid, indicating a leak in the brake system. Address this issue immediately, as low brake fluid can lead to complete brake failure.
7. Burning Smell
A burning smell coming from your brakes is a significant warning sign. It can indicate issues like overheating, leaking brake fluid, worn-out brake pads, stuck calipers, or other underlying issues. If you smell a burning odor when you apply the brakes, it’s advised that you stop driving immediately to avoid a serious accident and call a vehicle mechanic.
8. Visual Signs of Wear and Tear
It’s a good habit to inspect your brakes from time to time. Even if you aren’t a car expert, a simple check is an easy way to gauge the health of your brake pads. Look through the spokes of your car’s wheels. You will see a circular brake pad pressed up against the rotor of each tire. If your brake pads are getting thin (less than ¼ inch ), it’s time to consider getting them replaced.
Your vehicle’s brakes are important for your safety, your passenger’s safety, and that of others who share the road. It’s important not to ignore the warning signs that your brakes need attention. To service your vehicle, contact us today at My Calgary Mechanic.
