Brake issues are not something you want to experience. SDS Automotive wants you to be able to recognize some of the biggest signs of brake issues so that you can stay safe as you drive your car.
Vibrations During Braking
When you press down on the brake pedal, you should feel the car slowing down, but you shouldn’t feel any big vibrations. If you do, that can be a sign that some of the brake parts aren’t wearing evenly or that the rotor is warped in some way. The vibrations may become more severe the harder you’re trying to stop.
Pulling During Braking
Another issue you might encounter is that you press the brake pedal and the car immediately starts pulling to one side. This can be a sign that there is trouble with one set of brakes. This isn’t an issue you can ignore and hope will resolve on its own. This problem tends to only get worse.
The Brake Light Is On
There are a few times when you’ll normally see your car’s brake light. You see it when the car turns on, with all the other dashboard lights, and you also tend to see it if the parking brake is active. The other time you’ll be likely to see the brake light show up on the dashboard is when there is a problem with your car’s brakes. Ignoring that light can lead to bigger issues.
The Pedal Is Spongy
Your car’s brake pedal offers some resistance as you press down on it. That’s the hydraulic fluid helping to stop the car. If there’s a time when you press down on that pedal and the brakes feel a lot softer than usual, referred to as “spongy” feeling, there may be a problem somewhere with the brake fluid. You may also be noticing other issues with the brakes.
No Brakes at All
And the biggest problem of all is if you ever go to use the brakes and find that they’re not there at all. It’s the worst feeling in the world to tap the brake pedal and to feel it go all the way to the floor with no resistance. In that case, you may have to actually use the emergency brake to stop the car. Do not drive the car after this happens, even if the brakes seem to come back. You need to make sure that the brakes are safe first.
Need your car’s brakes inspected? SDS Automotive in Sacramento, CA is always here to help. Give us a call today and we’ll make sure your brakes are as safe as possible.