A driver’s worst nightmare is finding themself on the road and unable to stop the car, SUV, or truck they’re driving. An inability to stop, whether from mechanical failure or terrible road conditions, is one of the major causes of accidents. As such, you need to be aware of problems as they start to arise and remember to have key components of your car, such as the brakes, checked by a mechanic on a regular schedule.
To avoid problems and potential accidents, here are six symptoms of failing brakes you should watch out for.
1. The Brake Warning Light Is On
If your brakes are in trouble, you could see a warning light on your vehicle’s dashboard turn on. This brake warning light is sometimes called the ABS light. The ABS light indicates that the anti-lock brake system isn’t working as it should, though the brake warning light also can inform you that the brake pads need servicing. When you see one of these lights, you should schedule an appointment with your mechanic to resolve the problem.
2. Noises When You Brake
Are you hearing anything strange when you press down on the brake pedal? If you are, that’s a sign that you’ve got problems. A grinding noise indicates that you need to have the brake pads replaced. If you can hear a squealing sound, there could be an overheating issue. Any noise, even a squeaking sound, stemming from the braking system means you should schedule an appointment for your motor vehicle.
3. Overheating Brakes
If your brakes are overheating, you won’t just hear a squealing sound when you press the brake pedal. You also likely will smell a chemical odor wafting up from the brakes, meaning that the brake fluid has grown too hot. If the brake pads are overheating, you’ll smell something like a burning carpet or fabric. This is more of an emergency than worn brake pads.
4. Pulling Sensation When Braking
You could have a problem with one of your vehicle’s calipers if your automobile is pulling to the side as you apply the brakes. Once in a while, a caliper can become stuck and change your car’s or truck’s direction when you press the gas pedal. The caliper will have to be replaced to avoid the pulling sensation that occurs when braking.
5. Low or Leaking Brake Fluid
A brake system that’s leaking will leave light brown or red spots on the ground when parked. As is the case with most fluid leaks, this is most visible if you’re parked in a garage. If your fluid runs low while driving, stopping will be increasingly difficult. If it runs out, you won’t be able to stop your vehicle at all. If you notice these spots on the ground, you must get them looked at as soon as possible.
6. A Sinking Brake Pedal
If your brake pedal just seems to sink down as you press it, this is a sign of air bubbles in the brake lines. A mechanic will have to remove the air bubbles by bleeding the brake lines. A soft brake pedal can also point toward a failing master cylinder, which will need to be replaced.
How to Avoid Brake Problems
The best way to avoid braking problems is to remember to have them checked when you bring your vehicle in for service or an oil change. This ounce of prevention will go a long way toward keeping you and your loved ones safe.
