Squeeeeeeel... When you hear this noise coming from another car, it’s annoying. But, when you hear it from your own car, it’s frightening.
How many times a day do you have to stop your car? If you actually counted it would be a very high number. Now, imagine what could happen if your brakes took longer than you had anticipated to stop or worse, quit working during one of those stops. You could damage your car or worse you could hurt yourself, one of your passengers, or a unsuspecting pedestrian.
If you notice any of the following in your vehicle, then you should have your vehicle inspected by an ASE Certified Brake Specialist.
- The brake light is lit on your dashboard: This indicating that something is amiss and needs to be inspected ASAP.
- Grinding or Squealing sound when you apply the brakes. If the noise from your brakes is constant, you have a problem. Consult your auto technician immediately. He or she will check the brake calipers, brake pads & rotors, the master cylinder, and other parts of the braking system. The cost of the potential repair will vary according to the problem, make and model of your car.
- The Brake Fluid is leaking: DO NOT DRIVE THE CAR! Without the proper amount of brake fluid in your brake lines, you will not have full stopping power. If the brake reservoir is low, or you see a puddle of brake fluid under the vehicle, or your brake pedal is too low, tow it - don't drive it in for repair.
- Brakes feel funny. What I mean when I say “feels funny” is when the brake pedal feels spongy or lower than normal, or when you have to step on the brakes harder to get the car to stop. Another “feels funny” is when you step on the brake pedal and the car pulls to one side or you feel a vibration in the brake pad. If you experience any of this when stopping your car, take it to your trusted auto technician to find out why this is happening, and what needs to be repaired.
If you have any doubts about your brakes, stop by Auto Craftsmen and one of our ASE Certified Master Technicians will go on a ride with you to determine if your brakes are working properly and safely. I feel brakes should be at the top of your list of repairs never to be put off. If the car won’t start it is a great inconvenience, but if the car won’t stop, it can be deadly.