Signs Your Car Has Brake Problems

Your automobile has many crucial safety features, and the brake system is certainly one of them. Total Auto Care services and repairs/replaces vehicle braking systems because we want to make sure you can always rely on them to stop your automobile. How can you tell whether you’ve got brake problems? Here are common signs of brake problems no driver should ignore.

Brakes That Make Noise

An automobile’s brake system is designed to operate quietly. You shouldn’t hear your brakes. Squeaking or squealing can indicate problems with the brake pads, including glazing from overheating. Grinding indicates the brake pad surface has worn down to the metal backing. Squealing while you’re driving that stops, when you brake indicates your brake pads have worn down to the replacement indicator.

Brake Pedal Problems

The brake pedal can also clue you into brake problems. If the pedal feels soft or squishy, if it gives and then catches, if it sinks to the floor, or if it vibrates when you brake, you’ve got problems brewing in your car, truck, or C/SUV’s brake system. Worn brake pads or warped rotors could cause the vibration. If the pedal feels airy, you might have air in the brake lines or a master cylinder problem.

Control Problems

There are two reasons your vehicle will pull to the right or left side even though you’re driving straight. Pulling when your automobile is in motion indicates your wheels are not aligned properly or are out of balance. If your vehicle pulls to the side when you apply the brakes, you’ve got a stuck caliper or a warped rotor. You might also have a bad brake hose that is causing the vehicle to pull when you brake.

Burning Chemical Smell

One of the most dangerous things that can happen while driving is to have your brakes overheat. When this occurs, you will smell burning chemicals, you might see smoke, and your brakes will squeal. What’s happening is two-fold. The brake pads are glazing because they’re too hot, and the brake fluid is reaching a boiling point. When this happens, your brake system will fail, and you won’t be able to stop.Finally, if you see light brown fluid on your garage floor that is slick to the touch, your brakes are leaking. Your brake light will also come on if there’s a problem with the brakes. Call Total Auto Care in North Branch, MN, to schedule a brake inspection if you suspect brake problems with your car.