What Happens When the Brakes Go Bad?

There are numerous things that can go wrong when the brakes go bad. The worst thing that can happen is you won't be able to stop your automobile. We never want you to experience this fear, so bring your car, truck, or utility vehicle to our shop every 12,000 miles for a brake inspection.

Warning Light

You should also head to our shop right away if the ABS or Brake light turns on while you are driving your automobile or when you apply the brakes. These dashboard warning lights are there to alert you of problems with the brake system. As an aside, the Brake light will also turn on if you have the parking brake set.

Strange Noises

Another sign that your brake system is experiencing problems is strange noises coming from the brakes. Specifically, they may grind, scrape, or squeal. This can be a sign that you need new brake pads or that the brake system is overheating. The latter can prevent you from stopping your automobile.

Shaking/Vibrating

If the rotor surfaces are warped or you have a piece of road debris stuck in a caliper, your vehicle may shake or vibrate when you apply the brakes. It can also vibrate if the brake pad surfaces have worn down completely and the pad backings are pressing against the rotors.

Leaking Fluid

If your brake system hoses are too old, they may start to leak and you will see brake fluid on the garage floor behind the wheels. If the master cylinder needs to be replaced, it may start to leak and you will see brake fluid underneath the engine of your automobile.

Spongy Pedal

The brake hoses can also get air bubbles in them if they are cracked. If this happens, the brake pedal may feel spongy underneath your foot. In addition, you can end up with a spongy brake pedal if the master cylinder is malfunctioning and needs to be replaced.

Side-pulling

A sign that it is time to replace the brake calipers is pulling to the side when you apply the brakes. This means that one or more of the calipers is stuck.

Overheating

Finally, we mentioned above that your brakes will squeal if they are overheating. You will also smell hot odors coming from the brake system. Again, this can prevent you from being able to stop your automobile. As such, pull over and call for a tow truck to our shop.We are experts in everything brakes, so you can count on us to keep your brake system safe and reliable.