Warning Signs of Bad Brakes

Your brakes are the most important safety feature in your car, which is why you should be on high alert for any signs of wear and tear on your brake system. Without immediate attention, most braking issues will become worse, meaning they’ll become more expensive to repair later. Even worse, bad brakes can put you at risk for an accident, so you should keep your eyes and ears open to the following signs.

Screeching or Grinding Noises

Brake pads are designed to alert you when they wear down. You might hear a loud screeching noise every time you depress the brake pedal. If you don’t replace the pads, they can wear down to the rotors, which will have more of a grinding sound when compressed by the brakes. Rotor damage equates to costly repairs, so always have odd noises inspected by a mechanic to prevent further damage.

Brake Light on the Dashboard

There are several lights on the dashboard that can alert you to a problem with your brakes. One is simply there to alert you that the parking brake is engaged, but the ABS light or a light with an exclamation point inside a circle could indicate a serious issue in the brake system.

Shaking or Wobbling While Stopping

If you feel like the car is unstable when you hit the brakes, as if the car is shaking or swaying back and forth, then uneven rotors could be the culprit. This issue could affect your stopping time and make it harder to maintain control of your vehicle. Replacing the rotors will be necessary to smooth out your ride.

Soft Brake Pedal

Does it feel like the brake pedal is continuing to sink even after your car has stopped? This could result from a faulty master cylinder or air or moisture in the braking system. Either way, you should see a mechanic right away.

You should never take risks with your car’s safety, which is why Hometown Tire and Service is available in St. Paul, MN, to provide old-fashioned, honest customer service combined with modern auto care. Make an appointment for your vehicle’s next repairs or maintenance checkup by calling (651) 450-0535.

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