It is important to have good automobile breaks. Faulty breaks can lead to all sorts of accidents, which could result in grave injuries or loss of life. If you suspect that something is wrong with your breaks, don’t hesitate to have your vehicle checked by an experienced and qualified mechanic. Remember, driving with bad breaks endangers your life and the lives of innocent bystanders, pedestrians and other vehicle operators.
Not all drivers have knowledge about the inner workings of an automobile. So, how will you be able to tell if something is wrong? Most of the time, certain sounds will tell you that something is amiss. There are also times when a car won’t perform the way that it should. To help you figure things out, here are a few tips.
Squeaking or High-pitched Sounds
Squeaking sounds from a car can mean a number of things. For one, this could indicate that an auto’s wear guard or pad is almost worn out. A high-pitched squeak can be produced when thin wear guard scrapes against the rotor once a driver applies the breaks. Another reason for this sound may be the disc brake calipers. This occurs when calipers clamp more forcefully than they should and these should be adjusted immediately to avoid undue wear and tear, particularly with new disc brake calipers. Also, the brake pads often used these days are the hardier types, without any asbestos. These are definitely safer alternatives but the harder linings may produce squeaking sounds when braking.
Grinding Noise
When a driver hears a grinding noise when he applies his car breaks, this may indicate that his brake rotors are wearing out. The sound can worsen as the problem gets worse as well. This is also the sound one hears when squeaking sounds are ignored for long. Once the squeaking turns to grinding noises, then this indicates that the cars pads are worn out and that disc brakes are scraping metal, which is hazardous. Thus, a car making a grinding noise should immediately be taken to a mechanic as there may be a problem either with the brake discs or brake pads.
Soft Brake Pedal
A brake pedal must be firm and once this is applied, the vehicle must stop abruptly. Once a brake pedal feels spongy or soft when used, then this could indicate that the car needs more brake fluid or that the fluid may be leaking. The brake lines may also have taken in air when brake pedals feel spongy when stepped on.
Low Brake Pedal
When a brake pedal is low, this is an indication that there may be air in the lines. A car with loose or unstable rotors, drums or discs may also have a low brake pedal. There may also be a problem with the vehicle’s master cylinder or brake booster. The brake booster allows a driver to apply a car’s brakes more efficiently.
All in all, these are just a few signs that may indicate car brake problems. When any of these things are observed, it’s best to let a mechanic do a complete check to determine auto problems that could undermine driver safety.
Claire Flint is a freelance writer. She specializes in topics concerning vehicle safety and maintenance. She blogs for AWS Automotive, which is one of the best auto repair shops in California.