If your brake pedal feels spongy when you press down on it, your brake system master cylinder may be going bad. A soft brake pedal is also a sign that you have air in the brake lines. Both of these things can affect your ability to slow down and stop your automobile, as can the other signs of brake problems that are listed below. If you experience any of these issues, bring your vehicle to Midwest Auto Care & Transmission as soon as possible.
Brake Fluid Spots on the Garage Floor
Most brake fluids are light brown to dark brown depending on their age. There are some brands out there, however, that are red. If you see spots of either color on the garage floor around the wheels, your master cylinder or brake lines are leaking.
Burning Chemical or Carpet Odors
If you smell strange odors when you apply the brakes, the brake system is overheating. It’s dangerous to drive your automobile with an overheating brake system. Usually, boiling brake fluid smells like chemicals and glazed brake pads smell like burning carpet.
Dashboard Warning Light
You might also end up with an alert on your vehicle’s dashboard that the brake system is in trouble. Specifically, the ABS light will shine if there is an issue with the anti-lock part of your vehicle’s brake system. The Brake light covers the rest of any brake system problems.
Noises When Applying the Brakes
The engine’s RPMs slowing down are the only sound you should hear when you apply the brakes. If you hear squealing, the brakes could be overheating. If you hear scraping or grinding, the brake pad surfaces have worn down to the backing.
Pulling to the Side When Braking
Your car, truck, or C/SUV should not pull in either direction when you apply the brakes. If it does, you probably have a stuck caliper. The calipers press the brake pads into the rotors and if one gets stuck, your vehicle will pull.
Wobbling When Applying the Brakes
Finally, any wobbling or vibration that occurs when you apply the brakes can signal an issue with the rotors. The rotors put up with a lot of pressure – literally – from the brake pads. This can warp their surfaces and make your vehicle vibrate when you brake.
Midwest Auto Care is the best auto service shop in Lake Station, IN, so give us a call today to schedule a brake service appointment if your brakes are going bad.
