If you are ABS light is on and remains on, there is a problem with the antilock brake system on your automobile. The same can be said for the brake system if the Brake light turns on and remains on when the parking brake is not set. This is just one sign that your brake system needs to be serviced or repaired. We are going to list the other signs below for your information.
Brake Fluid Leaks
Your brake system needs to be fixed if it is leaking brake fluid. The most common area from where brake fluid leaks are the brake lines. As the brake lines age, they can become brittle and start to crack. Unfortunately, this allows the brake fluid to leak out of them. It is important to have a brake fluid leak fixed as soon as possible to avoid driving with low brake fluid levels.
Overheating/Burning
If your brakes are overheating, you will smell burning odors coming from them. In addition, the brakes will squeal every time that you use them. Unfortunately, when the brakes overheat, they lose their ability to generate friction and kinetic energy needed to stop. As such, we do not recommend that you drive your automobile when the brake system is overheating.
Pulling to the Side
It can be difficult to drive your car, truck, or utility vehicle if it pulls to the side when you apply the brakes. This can happen if one of the calipers gets stuck. Generally, the calipers are replaced every 75,000 miles. We can replace the calipers in your brake system if it has been longer than this since they have been replaced. Call our shop to schedule an appointment.
Squealing/Grinding
We mentioned above that the brakes will squeal if they are overheating. Unfortunately, they may also squeal if you need new brake pads installed on the pad backings. If the pads wear away completely, you will end up with a grinding or scraping noise that is made when the metal pad backings scrape against the metal rotors.
Vibrating Stops
Finally, your vehicle can vibrate as it slows down and stops when you apply the brakes if you need new brake pads. In addition, it can vibrate if you need new rotors or if there is road debris stuck in the calipers. No matter the cause of the vibration, we can fix it.
Give us a call today to schedule a service appointment for your vehicle’s brakes. This is especially important if they have not been inspected in over 12,000 miles.