Your brakes are the most important safety system in your vehicle. Routine brake inspections can help prevent problems, but sometimes issues develop in between brake checkups. Here are five signs you need brake repair services.
1. Vibration When Braking
Brakes that are in good condition should bring your vehicle to a stop smoothly. If your vehicle shudders when you apply the brakes, this often indicates that the rotors are warped. This is a potentially dangerous situation that could add seconds to the amount of time it takes to stop your vehicle.
2. Veering to One Side
If your vehicle veers noticeably to one side when you brake, bring it in for brake repair services. This reaction often means that one of the braking calipers is freezing up or that they are unevenly applying force.
3. Burning Odor
Brand new brands might emit a small odor for a couple of days. But if you notice a distinct burning odor when you brake, that’s not right. Chances are, the braking system is overheating. The overheating could be because brake fluid has leaked out or is not flowing properly. Get the brakes looked at quickly, because this kind of problem can be costly if you ignore it.
4. Noisy Brakes
Your brakes shouldn’t make any kind of noise when you use them. Unusual sounds like rubbing sounds, squeaking or worse, screeching, are all indicators that you need to have your brakes repaired. Often, this means that the rotor and brake pad are rubbing next to each other, which requires brake repair. You might just need new brake pads, but if you put off the repair, you’ll end up needing new rotors as well, which is more costly.
5. Fluid Leaking
If you notice fluid around the tires when you start to get into your vehicle, this could be fluid leaking from your braking system. Never ignore anything like this, because this symptom can lead to full brake failure. Another sign of brake fluid leaking is if your brakes seem to have lost substantial power suddenly. Bring your vehicle in to get brake repair services immediately if you suspect fluid leaking.
Don’t leave safety to chance. Book an appointment for brake repair services as soon as possible if you notice any of the above-mentioned signs.