subject: Top 6 Problems For Brakes And Troubleshooting [print this page] Your cars brakes are one of the most important aspects of safety with your vehicle. If your brakes need to be replaced or serviced, and you ignore this, you are putting your life as well as others at great risk. Allowing a brake problem to go untreated can also end up costing you a lot more money in the long run. Here are a few things to look for, and what you should do about them.
Grinding Noises
If you have noticed a grinding noise when you come to a stop, you have probably waited too long for a service. Grinding sounds are typically caused by brake linings that are worn down, causing them to grind against the rotor. If the rotors are damaged this is very costly. If you hear grinding you need to pull your vehicle over immediately and have it towed to your shop. Do not trust that they will get you there.
Squealing Sounds
If you hear squealing, this may be a sign that its time for a brake job, but it also may not be. Squealing can signify a lot of issues. Something as simple as a missing anti-rattle clip can cause a squeal, or something as serious as rotors that need to be machined. A squeal can be frustrating, but it should be checked to err on the side of caution.
Spongy Feeling
Spongy brakes can be a sign of air bubbles building up in the brake line. You can rectify this on your own by bleeding the brake lines. If you are not comfortable with this repair, any mechanic can do this for you, and it is not typically an expensive job.
Flooring the Brakes
If you find you are having to press the brake completely to the floor before you get the vehicle to stop, this should be checked. Start by checking the brake fluid. Low brake fluid can cause this, and is often the problem. If you find you are having to top off the brake fluid every few days, you should have it inspected for leaks.
Pulsating Pedal
This is fairly common on cars with front disc brakes. If the pedal pulsates when you try to stop, or the steering wheel shakes slightly, it could be an indication of worn rotors. If your brakes overheat easily it can create a rough surface on the rotor. This can be fixed by having the rotors machined, and this should be done sooner rather than later.
Routine Services
Even if your car is running perfectly, you should have certain things checked regularly. Brakes should be checked every 6 months, unless your owners manual suggests a different time frame. Many mechanics will suggest checking them once a year, and this fine, but a lot can happen in 6 months and having them inspected more frequently can alert you to minor problems before they become major.
