Brakes usually need to be replaced every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. This depends on your driving habits and the make and model of your car. The following signs will help warn you when your vehicle needs brake repair.
8 Signs It’s Time for a Brake Repair at Your Trusted Dealer in Frederick
1. Brake Warning Light
Modern cars have a brake warning light and an Antilock Braking System (ABS) light on the dashboard that will light up when there is a brake system problem. The brake warning light will also be illuminated when your parking brake is engaged. If it is not, the light is a warning that there is a problem with the braking system.
2. A Squealing Sound
Brake pads have a built-in piece of metal that will squeak when the pads are worn down. You will hear a high-pitched sound when that piece of metal comes into contact with the rotors. This is a warning that you need to get to a technician fast. If you ignore this warning sign, it will get worse and turn into a grinding noise.
3. A Grinding Noise
When you hear this noise, the brake pads are completely worn down to the bare metal. When you brake, the metal grinds against the steel brake rotor, causing the grinding noise. This will damage the rotors and will cost you more to fix than just replacing the brake pads.
4. Unresponsive Brakes
When you brake, and your car is slow to respond or takes long to come to a complete stop, your brakes are worn and likely need to be replaced. It could also mean that your vehicle is low on brake fluid. This could also be an indication of a brake fluid leak.
5. There Is a Puddle Under Your Car
Brake fluid is yellow in color, and when it gets dirty, it will change to brown. If you see a yellow or brownish-colored spot where your car was parked, it is probably leaking brake fluid.
6. Your Car Pulls to the Side
When your brake pads are unevenly worn, your car will pull to either the left or the right when you apply the brakes. This problem could also be caused by dirty brake fluid. Either way, let a technician replace the pads and flush and replace the brake fluid.
7. Excessive Vibration
Rotors press the brake pads against the wheel to stop your car. Brake rotors that get too hot or worn can warp and unevenly make contact with the brake pads. When you feel vibrations when you brake, it is usually a sign that the brake rotors are warped.
8. Check Your Brake Pads for Wear
Inspect the pads and look for signs of wear. You will be able to see the brake pads between the wheel spokes. If the brake pads are less than a quarter-inch thick, your car likely needs new pads.
Driving with bad brakes is dangerous. If you recognize one or more of these signs, it’s time to visit a service center and get a qualified technician to fix the problem. Visit DARCARS Used Car & Service Center of Frederick today. We have skilled technicians and quality parts to make sure you stay safe on the road.
Connect with us
