Midwest Auto Care has “Auto Care” in our name because we can take care of your vehicle no matter what it needs. This includes brake service, repair, and replacement. Servicing your brakes is as important as getting your oil changed. Your brake system is a crucial safety feature on your automobile, which is why you should stop by our shop right away if you notice any of the following signs of brake problems.
Brake Light Warning
Your brake light should only come on when you set your parking brake. If it comes on for any other reason, or if your ABS light comes on and doesn’t turn off, your vehicle’s engine control module is telling you there’s a problem with the brake system.
Noisy Brakes
Sure, if it’s wet outside your brakes might squeak when you stop, but other than that, you should never hear noise when you brake. Grinding noises suggest the brake pads are worn. Squealing or squeaking can indicate that your brakes are overheating.
Brake Movement
Braking should always be smooth. Your vehicle shouldn’t vibrate, your brake pedal or steering wheel shouldn’t wobble, and you shouldn’t feel a scraping sensation. If any of these things happen, you probably have a brake pad and/or rotor problem.
Fluid Leaks
Brake fluid will leak underneath your car close to the wheels. The fluid is usually light brown and is very oily when you touch it. Brake fluid can turn dark brown as it ages. Leaking brake fluid is a huge problem because your vehicle cannot stop without brake fluid.
Squishy Brake Pedal
Changes in how your brake pedal feels underneath your foot are an indication of air in the brake lines or master cylinder failure. Your pedal should never feel soft or squishy, nor should it sink all the way to the floor. It should give you the same resistance each time you use it.
Pulling to the Side
If your automobile pulls to one side while you’re driving, your wheel alignment is off. If your vehicle pulls to one side when you apply the brakes, you could have a stuck caliper or other brake system problem. Braking should not influence the direction of your vehicle.
Overheating Brakes
Finally, burning smells while you are braking is a serious sign that your brakes are overheating. If the brake pads get too hot, you will smell burning rubber or an odor like burning carpet. If the fluid is overheating, you will smell burning chemicals.
Again, overheating brakes put you in a very dangerous situation. Call Midwest Auto Care in Lake Station, IN, for all of your vehicle’s brake service and repair needs.