Your car’s brake are one of the most important components of your vehicle. They ultimately define the safety of your vehicle. In fact, brake failures account for about 5% of the car accidents in the US every year so it’s important to keep up with them.
Any problem involving the brake system should be placed high on your priority list. Good news is, there are signs that will tell you that a brake problem is on the horizon. Here are the 4 signs that it is time for you to get new brakes.
- Strange noises
One of the most common indicators that you are having a brake problem is when you hear strange noises every time you apply the brakes. It could be a squeaking, squealing or a grinding sound which is typically caused by worn-out brake pads. As a rule of the thumb, your brake pads should be checked or replaced every 50,000 miles. If you wait too long before you get your car’s brake pads serviced, you could extend the damage to the rotors and the brake calipers which means more serious problems and costlier repairs.
- Low responsiveness
Have you experienced applying your car’s brakes but it would take longer for it to stop? It is as if you need to step on the brake harder for it to respond. This is another sign that your car may need new brakes. Unresponsive brakes can be really frustrating… and dangerous for you and the drivers around you. The problem could be caused either by a worn-out brake pad or a low brake fluid which is oftentimes a result of leak. When you experience low responsiveness when you apply your brakes, bring your car to a mechanic as soon as possible to address the problem.
- Brake pad indicator light is on
Modern vehicles come with brake pad sensor lights on the dash. It helps you monitor the level of wear and tear of your brake pad. The sensor light turns on when your parking brake is applied and whenever there is a problem with your brake system. So if you are seeing your brake warning lights on even if the parking brake is not applied, then it is time to schedule a service for your vehicle as you may be needing new brakes.
- Pulling to one side
Another sign that you should not ignore is when your car seems to pull on one side when you apply the brakes. This problem should not be ignored as it can cause a car accident. Pulling on one side when applying the brakes could be caused by worn-down brake pads or putting a stress on your braking system such as driving in mountainous terrain or constantly applying the brakes aggressively. You will know if the issue is caused by worn brake pads by applying the brakes without turning the steering wheel. If the vehicle pulls on one side, then it is a sign that you need new brake pads.
For more information on brakes or if you’re looking for qualified and reliable mechanics near you, contact us at Michigan Auto and Tire located in Woodbridge, VA.
