How Can I Tell If My Brakes Are Going Bad?

Look Out For These Warning Signs of Bad Brakes

One of your vehicle’s most important features is the brakes. They are critical in order to stay safe on the road. It is recommended that you have your car’s brakes serviced once every 50,000 miles to ensure that everything is working properly.

However, if you notice any of the following symptoms, you should bring your vehicle in as soon as possible to have it inspected.

Thin Brake Pads

You can tell if your brakes need to be replaced by looking at the brake pads. Between the brake caliper and the brake disc, they are located. Peering between the spokes on your car’s wheels will reveal them. If you do not replace the brake pads before they wear out, you will end up with metal scraping against metal, which will severely damage the brake system.

Vibrating Brake Pedal

You should be familiar with how the brake pedal feels. You have a problem if you feel any vibrations coming from it when you press down. The vibrations are likely to be accompanied by increased difficulty slowing down your vehicle. This can be very dangerous. When you feel vibrations in the brake pedal, it is a sign that the brake pads are too worn out. You will need to physically inspect the pads.

Screeching Sounds

Look Out For These Warning Signs of Bad BrakesThere should be no sound coming from the brakes when you engage them. The first sign that your pads are failing is when you hear screeching or squealing sounds. The noise is most likely coming from a small, metallic shim indicator embedded within the pad. This is designed to alert you to a problem.

Indicator Lights

Keep an eye on your dashboard. If any of the lights come on, you must address the problem right away. Some cars now even have an indicator that tells you when it is time to change the brake pads. 

Shaky Steering Wheel

The brake pads can cause a slew of problems in your car. However, you should be aware of warning signs that your brake rotors are failing. It is possible that the steering wheel will shake as you drive.

This is a clear indication that your vehicle requires maintenance. The rotors are usually the source of the problem. It is possible that they’re uneven and will need to be repaired by a professional.

Leaking Fluid

As you drive away, you may notice that your car has left a small puddle behind. It could be motor oil at first glance. However, it could also be something else.

It is possible that the puddle contains brake fluid. This will prematurely degrade the system. If you have no idea what the fluid is, you should take your car to a mechanic right away to have the situation assessed.

Brake Repair in San Diego

For many years, Automobile Repair Shop San Diego has provided trusted and high-quality auto repair in San Diego. If you are experiencing any automotive issues at all in the Southern California area, call (619) 330-0862 today to learn more about how we can help you with your San Diego auto maintenance.