Signs That Your Car’s Brakes Are Failing

How Can You Spot a Car’s Brake Problems?

It should go without saying that problems with a car’s braking system should never be ignored. The ability to bring a car, truck, or SUV to a stop is crucial to its safe operation. If you’re wondering how you can spot a car’s brake problems, we have some helpful information for you. Brakes are so critical that some of the warning signs are actually built-in to the brakes so owners know it’s time to make an appointment at a repair facility, like the one at Budds’ Chev. We reached out to some of our expert technicians to help educate you on the subject. Let’s take a look at what they had to say.

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4 Signs That Your Car’s Brakes Are Bad

Most vehicle owners should have no trouble being able to identify the signs of bad brakes. Many of these signals will seem out of place and are your first sign that something is wrong. If you have noticed any of the following things, make an appointment with the Budds’ Chev Service Department right away.

1. Screeching, Grinding, or Squealing: Modern automotive brakes work by closing a caliper on a rotor to slow down the vehicle. Hearing something that sounds like screeching, grinding, or squealing means it is time for a brake replacement.
2. Vibrations in the Steering Wheel: If you step on the brake pedal and the steering wheel starts to vibrate, that is a guarantee the brakes need attention. Ignoring this sign will only add to the cost of the final repair bill.
3. Mushy Brake Pedal: Needing to push harder on the brake pedal to slow down or stop the vehicle is an early sign that the brakes need work. This could be a sign the brake shoes are worn or that there is a brake fluid lead. Both are major problems that must be addressed by a professional.
4. Burning Smell: Anytime a vehicle produces a burning smell, immediate repair is needed. If the smell can be localized to the area around the wheels, it could be that the metal brake parts have become too hot to be effective. Get your vehicle to a repair facility immediately.

Newer vehicles are often equipped with onboard diagnostic systems. If a brake warning light or other warning message is displayed, don’t ignore it. Make an appointment with the Budds’ Chev Service Department as soon as you possibly can.