Stopping and Going: The Essentials of Brake Maintenance

Introduction

Stopping and going are the two most important functions of your vehicle. Our job at CarLife is to keep you and your family safe while on the road. If your vehicle’s brakes are starting to wear out or malfunction, it’s essential to address the issue promptly for safety reasons.

Here are some common signs and symptoms that indicate you may need a brake job:

1. Squealing or Screeching Noises

A high-pitched squealing sound when you apply the brakes is a typical indicator that your brake pads are worn out. This noise is caused by a built-in wear indicator.

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2. Grinding Sound

If you hear grinding, it usually means your brake pads are so worn that the metal of the caliper is rubbing against the brake rotor. This can cause serious damage and may require rotor replacement.

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3. Vibrations When Braking

A vibrating or pulsating brake pedal is often caused by warped brake rotors, which can happen due to overheating or uneven wear. You may feel this in the steering wheel as well.

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4. Longer Stopping Distances

If your car takes longer to stop than usual, it could be due to worn brake pads, a fluid leak, or other brake system issues.

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5. Brake Warning Light

Many vehicles have a dashboard warning light that will illuminate if there’s a problem with your braking system, such as low brake fluid or worn pads.

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6. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal

If the brake pedal feels soft, spongy, or goes all the way to the floor, there may be a problem with the hydraulic system, such as air in the brake lines or a brake fluid leak.

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7. Burning Smell While Driving

A sharp chemical odor after hard braking can indicate overheated brakes. If this happens, pull over and let the brakes cool down. Persistent overheating can lead to brake failure.

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8. Car Pulls to One Side When Braking

If your vehicle pulls to one side when you apply the brakes, this could mean one of the brake calipers is stuck or you have uneven brake pad wear.

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9. Visible Wear on Brake Pads

You can often see your brake pads through the wheel spokes. If they appear thinner than a quarter of an inch, it’s time to have them replaced.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to get your brakes inspected as soon as possible to avoid more costly repairs or potential safety hazards.

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Do you need help setting up a brake inspection at CarLife Auto Repair?

‍Request an appointment below at one of our valley locations!