If your Brake light turns on while you are driving, your brake system is trying to tell you something. The same is true if the ABS light turns on. These dashboard warning lights will turn on when there is a problem with the brake system, when there is low brake fluid, or when there is a problem with the system sensors. This is just one sign of bad brakes. Here are other signs.
Leaking Brake Fluid
If you see red or brown spots on the garage floor, it’s possible that your brake system is leaking. Brown and red are the common colors in which brake fluid comes. Depending on where the system is leaking, the spots will be underneath the brake fluid reservoir or around the wheels.
Loose Brake Pedal
Another sign that your brake system has problems is a loose brake pedal. When we say loose, we mean that the pedal will feel spongy or soft underneath your foot. The pedal may also sink to the floorboard. Generally, this means that the brake lines have air in them.
Overheating Brakes
It is important to stop driving your automobile if the brake system is getting too hot. You will know that the system is overheating because you will be able to smell burning odors when you apply the brakes and the brakes will squeal. Overheated brakes can fail to slow down and stop your vehicle.
Pulling to the Side
Your automobile should keep going straight when you apply the brakes. If it veers to one side or the other, you have a problem with the caliper on that wheel. Usually, this means that the caliper is stuck. A general rule of thumb is to replace the calipers every 60,000 miles.
Strange Brake Noises
We mentioned above that the brakes will squeal when the brake system is getting too hot. They may also squeal if your brake pad surfaces are getting too low. If the brake pads are worn down completely, the brakes will grind. This might also sound as if they are scraping.
Strange Wobbling/Vibration
In addition to the strange noise, your vehicle may wobble or vibrate if the brake pads are worn out. The automobile can also shake if there is a tiny piece of road debris stuck in one of the calipers. Finally, if the rotor surfaces are in need of service, your vehicle will wobble or vibrate.
We can take care of your brake problems at our shop, so call us today to schedule a service appointment. This is a crucial safety system to your automobile, so time is of the essence.