Your vehicle’s brakes are often the last thing you think about–until there’s a problem. Most brake problems manifest themselves as grinding or squeaking when the pedal is applied, but there are other signs such as:
Poor stopping performance
Grinding/squealing noises
Grabbing or pulling to the side
Loss of brakes
Pulsation during braking
Acceleration drag
A lit antilock brake light (on cars equipped with ABS)
Poor Braking Performance
There are a variety of reasons for poor brake performance. Crystallized brake shoes and pads have become hard due to heat, and can no longer stop the rotor or drum from rotating. Crystallization usually occurs after overuse; the more the brakes are ‘ridden’, the more ineffective they become.
Grease and oil-soaked brakes in Shingle Springs CA can also cause problems. Oil from the transaxle or rear differential can get onto brake parts, as can grease from a failed tie rod or ball joint.
Failure of a brake booster can cause issues with braking performance, and it can occur due to diaphragm deterioration or engine vacuum loss.
Squealing and Grinding
Noises such as these coming from brakes are usually indicative of glazed or worn pads. Squealing noises come from wear indicators, which tell you when parts need replacing. However, most people wait until the squeak becomes a grind, which means that the brakes are eating into the rotors. If you hear squeaking, get your brakes checked right away.
Grabbing and Pulling
This issue can occur for a variety of reasons. Pulling usually stems from poor brake adjustment, leaking fluid, frozen brakes or emergency brake cables, or oil on the pads or shoes.
Pedal Loss
A ‘soft’ pedal usually occurs due to leaking brake fluid, rusted lines, worn calipers or master cylinder. A simple inspection is enough to pinpoint the issue.
Pulsation When Stopping
Brakes pulsate because they are overheated and worn. Wear and heat thin the drum or rotor, which causes significant warping. If you notice pulsation, get your brake replaced. There are many reasons why brakes fail, but most failures can easily be prevented. Have your car’s braking system inspected twice per year to avoid inconvenient (and expensive) surprises.
