6 Signs That It May Be Time for a Brake Job
Written by WebAdmin on October 21.2019. Posted in Maintenance
The brakes are one of the most important features in your vehicle. They are paramount to remain safe on the road. It is recommended to take your car to a mechanic once every 50,000 miles for a brake job to ensure everything works as it should.
However, if you notice any of the following signs, then you want to bring your vehicle in sooner to have it looked at.
1. Excessively Thin Brake Pads
You can analyze whether you need a brake job by simply looking at the brake pads. They are located between the brake caliper and brake disc. You can see them by peering between the spokes on your car’s wheels.
In the event the pads are any less than 1/4-inch in thickness, then it is a clear indicator they are about to wear down completely. You need to replace the pads before they wear out, or else you will end up with metal scraping against metal, which can significantly damage the brake system.
2. Vibrations in the Brake Pedal
You should know how it feels to apply the brake pedal. If you notice any vibrations coming from it when you press down, then you have a problem. The vibrations are likely accompanied by greater difficulty in slowing down your car, which is dangerous.
A vibrating brake pedal is often a sign the brake pads are too worn out, so when you feel the vibrations, you should physically examine the pads. You should take your vehicle to a mechanic promptly to have the issue addressed.
3. Screeching or Squealing Noises
When you engage the brakes, there should not be any sound coming out. When you start to hear screeching or squealing sounds, it is often the first sign your pads are failing. The sound is most likely coming from a tiny, metallic shim indicator embedded within the pad to let you know there is an issue.
The sound may also come from dust and other debris that has accumulated on the pads. If the noises do not go away after a few uses, then you need a professional’s help.
4. Indicator Lights
Pay attention to your dashboard. When any of the lights illuminate, you need to address the issue right away. These days, some cars even come with an indicator to tell you when it is time to replace the brake pads, which you should follow.
When the light comes on, you should make sure your mechanic replaces the light sensors in addition to the pads.
5. Shaky Steering Wheel
The pads can cause a lot of issues in your vehicle. However, you also want to pay attention to signs of failing brake rotors. As you drive, you may feel shaking coming from the steering wheel.
This is a clear sign your car needs a check-up. Most of the time, the rotors are the culprit. They could be uneven and require repairs from a professional.
6. Leaky Fluid
As you drive off, you may realize your car leaves behind a small puddle. Your first thought maybe that it is motor oil, but it could be something else.
It is possible the puddle consists of brake fluid, which will degrade the system prematurely. In the event you have no clue what the fluid could be, then you want to take your car to a mechanic immediately to assess the situation.
Get Your Brake Maintenance on Greg’s Japanese Auto
Any changes to your car’s behavior should be examined. Bring your car over to Greg’s Japanese Auto for routine maintenance to ensure your brakes continue working as they should.
You can contact us to learn more about our services and to set up a time to come in. We would be more than happy to look at your vehicle’s brakes to determine what is causing the problem.
Image Credit: Shutterstock/Rommel Canlas