subject: Signs That You Need Your Brakes Checked [print this page] One of the most important aspects when driving is to ensure that you can get the vehicle that you desire to stop at any time that you may desire. Through this, you are confident that you are in full control of the vehicle at all times. It is therefore important that you can note when there is a problem with your brakes as early as possible, as this might help you in saying safe and helping other road users stay safe too.The five signs outlined below are signs of imminent brake failure that needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
One of the most common problems that are accompanied with braking problems is unusual noises. This is commonly manifested as a grinding noise that is high pitched. Most brake companies place a metallic strip that touches on the disc of the wheel to cause the squealing noise that you might hear while driving. This squealing is a sign that the brake pads are worn out and that they need to be replaces. Another common feature that you might hear is the screeching of tires when you brake. This is a sign that when some of the wheels are locked by your braking action, some wheels of the vehicle are not stopped and they continue moving, leading to the screeching noise.
The brake warning indicator within the dashboard of the vehicle is also another sign that the vehicles brakes need to be checked. If you find it on, the brake fluid is low and this can only be caused by worn out brake pads, if the fluid is not leaking. It is therefore important that you top up the fluid so that you check on whether the fluid is leaking or the brakes are indeed worn out.
The vehicle pulling to one sign is also a sign of a problem with the brakes. This could be caused by maladjustment of the brakes, a leakage of fluid or even brakes that are worn out on one side of the vehicle.When you note that the brake is spongy or becomes hard to press, this is most likely caused by an air bubble that is within the lines and the brake fluid requires being bled until the air bubble is removed.
Finally, there is the incidence of vibrations whenever the vehicle has brakes applied on it. This is mainly caused by the brake rotors warping, thus causing uneven braking and they need to be replaced. Visit your mechanic as soon as any of the above symptoms are noted for an early diagnosis
