Signs You Need To Have Your Brakes Checked Before They Fail Completely
There are a number of signs that it's time to get your brakes checked before your brake system stops working completely. Brakes can last anywhere from 25,000 to 65,000 miles, making it difficult to determine when you need new brakes from mileage alone. How often you brake while driving will have a direct impact on how quickly you need to have new brake pads installed. If your car veers to one side, or your brake pedal vibrates when you press down on it, you probably need to have your brakes serviced. Squealing noises when you press down your brakes also mean you probably need new brake pads. Pay attention to how your brakes are working, and bring your car in for service when there are problems.
You Hear Strange Noises
A squealing noise coming from your brakes when you press down on the pedal usually means the pads are wearing down. There could be some moisture on your rotors first thing in the morning. If the sound goes away after using your brakes once or twice and doesn't continue, it could just be moisture. If the noise persists, contact an auto service as soon as possible. Grinding noises are always a bad sign for your brakes, as this means your pads are virtually gone and the rotors are hitting the brake pad brackets.
When Your Brake Pedal is Low
If you have to press down further on your brake pedal to get the brakes to work, you might need new pads or brake fluid. It might take you more effort to stop your vehicle, or it takes longer to slow down your vehicle if you need brake work done. If your brake pedal feels spongy, it's another indication that you need to have your brakes checked.
Your Car Pulls to One Side
If you are driving and your car pulls to one side, the brake pads could be the issue. If you notice that your brake pedal is also vibrating, you need to make sure that your brakes are in decent shape. You could have a problem with a rotor, brake pad, or need to have brake fluid in your vehicle. Your car can pull to one side if there is a problem with wheel alignment or your steering as well.
Get your brakes checked when you notice a problem so that you don't get stuck with failed brakes. Pay attention to how quickly your brakes stop your vehicle, and bring your car in to an auto service with any noted issues.
Share