If your brakes are going bad, they are at risk of failing. There’s just no way to avoid it. This is why it’s important to let us here at West Omaha Auto Service inspect your brakes every 12,000 miles. Ignoring the brakes, or ignoring the brake maintenance, will set you up for disaster. Here are the signs that your brakes are failing or, at a minimum, that they are overdue for important services.
Brake Light
The ABS light will turn on when you first start your automobile and if it doesn’t turn off, you’ve got a problem with your ABS. The brake light will turn on when you set the parking brake, but if it turns on at any other time, you have a problem with the brake system.
Strange Sounds
Grinding or scraping brake sounds mean that your brake pads have worn down to the backings. Squeaking or squealing can indicate that the brake pads are getting too low, or it is also a sign that your brakes are overheating. You should never hear your brakes.
Fluid Leaks
Your vehicle’s brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that helps stop your car. If you notice light brown to dark brown spots on your garage floor around the wheels, your brake system is leaking brake fluid, and it’s important that you get this fixed right away. Low brake fluid can prevent you from stopping your automobile.
Strange Sensations
If your brake pedal or the steering wheel vibrates when you apply the brakes, or if your brake pedal feels soft or spongy, there is something going on with the brake system. This can be a sign of a stuck caliper, warped rotors, or problems with the brake fluid in the brake lines. It can also be a sign of a failing master cylinder.
Burning Smells
If your brakes are overheating, you will notice a burning smell. Depending on the part of the brake system that is overheating, it will either smell like burning carpet, maple syrup, or chemicals. It’s important to pull over when you have any strange, hot smells coming from your automobile.
Finally, if your vehicle pulls to one side while you are applying the brakes, you likely have a stuck caliper, so call West Omaha Auto Service in West Omaha, Nebraska today to schedule an appointment for a brake inspection and service. Don’t take chances with this important safety system. You don’t want to find out what could happen if you can’t stop your automobile.