Warning Signs You Need New Brakes

Good Morning, I hope everyone had a wonderful Holiday weekend. It was really beautiful here in Northeast Ohio on Easter Sunday. Lets hope the weather keeps looking up for us.

Today I would like to share with you some warning signs that your vehicle may needs new brakes. They may not be something you think about very often, but your vehicles brakes are one feature that should always be in top working condition. Here are some things you need to look for to keep your brakes in working condition.

Look and listen
There are two ways to check for brake wear on disc brakes, by looking and by listening. First, check out the wear by looking at your brake pads through the space between the wheel's spokes. The outside pad will be pressed against a metal rotor. There should be at least 1/4 inch of pad. If there isn't at least 1/4 inch of pad you might want to have your break pads checked out or even replaced.
Have you heard a high-pitched screeching noise when you apply your brakes? That is a small metal shim which is called the indicator. This is giving you warning that you need to replace your brake pads. You should be aware of this sound, its loud and should be heard with the windows up, but maybe not if the radio is at a loud volume. If you hear this noise regularly, make sure you make an appointment with your mechanic as soon as possible.

 

 Here are a few other signs of brake problems. If you notice any of these things you should visit your repair shop as soon as possible.

 

Reduced responsiveness or fading.
If your brakes are not as good as they should be or the petal sinks towards the floor, this could be a warning sign that there could be a leak in the breaking system. IT could be an air leak in the break hose or a brake fluid leak. If you notice a small puddle of fluid when your car is parked this is a good indication of a air leak or a break fluid leak. Brake fluid looks very similar to fresh motor oil, but doesn't have such a slimy texture.
 Pulling.
If you vehicle pulls to one side while braking, this could be a warning sign your brake linings are wearing unevenly or there is something in the brake fluid. Your vehicle may need a brake adjustment or to have the fluid replaced or just drained. 
 Grinding or growling.
This loud metallic sound means that you could have worn down the pads completely, and way past replacement. The grinding or growling noised is caused by two pieces of metal rubbing together. This would be the disc and the caliper. This could scratch your rotors which would create an uneven surface. If this does happen, you rotors might need to be turned or even replaced.
 Vibration.
A vibration brake pedal is a symptom of warped rotors. This could mean your vehicle is out of alignment. The vibration can feel similar to a panic stop equipped with anti-locked brakes. Warped rotors are caused by severe braking for long periods. The vibration is felt because the brake pads are not able to grab the surface evenly. 

For many many owners, maintaining your vehicle's brakes is something that is often overlooked. If you keep your brakes properly calibrated and in good condition it can prevent you from costly repairs on down the line. 
I hope this post today gave you a little bit more knowledge on brakes. If you are in our area and would like us to check your brakes or if you are in need of new brakes, please feel free to call us at (330)-621-3206.
Thanks for stopping by today, Enjoy your week everyone!!!