Numerous things can go bad when your brakes go bad. The worst thing that can happen is you will be unable to stop your SUV, car, or truck. We want to make certain you never face that fear. We will make sure your brake system stays healthy and reliable with regular brake system maintenance. We recommend that you bring your vehicle to our shop once a year or every 12,000 miles.
ABS/Brake Warning
You should head to our shop right away if your ABS or Brake light turns on while you are driving or applying the brakes. The former is a sign that the anti-lock portion of the brake system is malfunctioning. That latter is a sign that the brake system is malfunctioning.
Leaking Brake Fluid
You may also end up with a leaking brake system if you don’t have the system maintained. The brake system hoses can start to leak if they crack. The master cylinder can also leak if it needs to be replaced. You may see brown or red fluid near the wheels or underneath the engine.
Overheating/Burning Odors
Pull over and call for a tow to our shop if your brake system starts to overheat. Signs that the system is too hot include burning odors coming from the brakes and squealing noises every time you apply the brakes. The burning odors may remind you of burning carpet or chemicals.
Pulling to the Side
The brake system calipers are generally the problem if your automobile pulls to the side when you apply the brakes. One of the calipers may be stuck, and if this is the case, your car will pull to the side on which it is stuck. We can replace your calipers when they need it to avoid this problem.
Strange Brake Noises
Aside from squealing when the brakes are overheating, they can also squeal if the brake pads are too low and need to be replaced. Your brakes may also scrape or grind if the brake pad surfaces have worn off completely. The brake pads need to be changed when they reach 1/4-of-an-inch.
Strange Pedal Sensations
Your brake pedal may also tell you that there is a problem with the brake system. For example, if the master cylinder needs to be replaced or there is air in the brake lines, the pedal will feel soft and sink to the floor. It may also vibrate if the brake pads are worn out.
Wobbling/Vibration
Speaking of vibration, your entire vehicle may wobble or vibrate if there is a tiny rock stuck in one of the calipers. It may also shake when you slow down and stop if the rotors need to be replaced. In some cases, we may be able to recut the rotor surfaces to smooth out the braking.
Call us today if it has been longer than one year since you have had the brakes inspected. We will schedule an appointment for you for a brake service.