Pay Attention to Your Brakes: They Might be Telling You Something
Posted on: 22 June 2017
Your vehicle's brakes are one of the most important parts of its anatomy when it comes to keeping you and your passengers safe. When you need to stop in an emergency, a second can make a huge difference, so it's important to keep your brakes in top condition so they can work as efficiently as possible.
Most people, however, take their brakes for granted, and if you're not paying attention then you might not notice the early warning signs of a developing problem. Keep a lookout for any of these things and you might be able to tackle any brake issues before they become serious.
Strange sounds
There are quite a few noises you might hear if there's an emerging problem with your brakes, so listen out carefully. First of all, keep an ear open for a high-pitched squealing sort of noise. This is a dead give away that your brakes need attention.
Brake systems actually have something built into them called an indicator, which makes this screeching sound as a warning when your brake pads are worn and need to be replaced. It should be easy to notice if it happens.
Other sounds that might signal extremely worn brakes pads are grinding, clicking, or growling noises.
Pulling
Pulling means the car seems to want to turn one way or another without you moving the wheel. It can actually be a sign of various things, including wheel alignment, but one possible cause is an issue with the brakes. It's best to take the car in for a full service if you're experiencing this.
Vibrating pedal
When you apply the brakes, does the pedal vibrate strongly? You're certain to notice this one, even if you're not able to hear any odd noises over the sound of the engine. In some cases, it can be strong enough that it'll make your leg tired. It could mean that your brake pads are worn or warped out of shape, and they might need either reshaping or full replacement.
Reduced responsiveness
It can be surprisingly difficult to spot your brakes not performing as they should, as the change is usually gradual. Nevertheless, if you pay attention, you should be able to pick up on it. If you suspect there's a problem, it's worth trying some emergency stops to see how quickly the brakes kick in, but make sure you do so in a safe place where you won't cause injury to yourself or others!
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