Safe driving is not only about following the correct speed or following traffic rules – it is more than that. You must have at least an idea of the importance of your car parts particularly the brakes. Car brakes have also their wear and tear; you must know when the appropriate time to have it change or recognize signs of them wearing down.
Being a woman is not an excuse. You might think…oh, it’s my husband’s job to know that. Anyone who drives must be aware of these things. It is not necessary to do it yourself, as long as you know how to detect the need for a brake check-up is far better than driving around, obliviously putting you and your family’s life at risk.
Warning Signs
1. Weak response when stepping on the brakes
If you notice that stepping on your pedal brakes is not as responsive as it used to then it is something to be considered. Or perhaps, it sinks towards the floor while stepping on it. Experiencing these scenario are indications that brake change is imminent. Reasons for reduced responsiveness of your brakes may include leaking in your brake system, air leak (hose), and brake fluid leak.
2. Pulling Effect
Pulling effect means, if you try to step on the brake pedal and your vehicle is pulled to one side – it may be because of an uneven lining. There could also be presence of foreign matters in your brake fluid. That being said, your brake system may need adjustment or a need for fluid draining and replacement.
3. Loud Grinding or Growling Sound
When you hear a sharp howling noise while braking – this means your brake pads are completely worn out. The growling noise is the result of the disc and caliper rubbing together. Ignoring this can scratch your rotors causing the uneven surface which will actually incur bigger expenses. Your mechanic will advise you to have your rotors “turned” or replaced. Turned is a process that evens the rotor surface.
4. Vibrating or Pulsating Brake Pedal
Vibration is usually a sign of warped rotors although this could also mean a problem with the alignment.
If your anti-lock brakes are not engaged and vibration occurs while braking, this is a sigh of warped rotors. Severe use of your brake system (steep-mountain driving or towing) causes warped rotors. Activities like driving in steep mountains or towing and the like produces tremendous friction which is the cause of warping. And, once the brake pads are unable to grab an even surface, vibration occurs. If being in this situation is inevitable, make sure to take a break every now and then to allow breaks to cool off.
The braking system is the most commonly overlooked section by car owners which is supposedly tantamount to safety. Thus, knowing when to have a brake system check-up or learning the signs of a worn out brake system ensures your safety in as much as avoid possibility of costly repairs. Importantly, circumvent any untoward circumstances or any types of road accidents just because of mere brake system negligence.
Author Bio:
Howard J. Fleischmann Sr. is the owner of Community Tire Pros and Auto Repair...offering complete automotive repair as well as brake repair and replacement and service to both domestic and import vehicles.
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