Is there an easy way to tell that your brakes are going bad? There’s actually a lot that can go wrong with your brakes, so the easy answer is that if you feel anything different with them, get them checked. Here’s more information from Route 20 Auto Essentials.
There’s a Brake Fluid Leak
Your car’s brakes are a hydraulic system, which means that they require fluid within the system in order to function. If you spot brake fluid anywhere outside the car, that’s a sign that there’s a leak somewhere. That leak could be compromising your brake function and needs to be investigated.
The Brakes Aren’t Responsive
When you press down on the brake pedal, you should feel the brakes responding. If you don’t, like if the brake pedal doesn’t seem to be doing anything at all, that’s not good. You may need to use the emergency brake to stop the car, and if you do, that’s a sign that you cannot drive the car until you’ve gotten the brakes fixed.
You’re Feeling Shaking When You Brake
Sometimes you might experience vibrations or shaking when you press the brake pedal. That can be a sign that the rotors need to be turned or that the brake pads aren’t wearing evenly. Either way, it’s a sign to take your car in to the shop to have the brakes examined.
The Brakes Smell Hot
You shouldn’t smell your brakes unless there’s a problem, honestly. Hot brakes are something that race car drivers experience, but the average driver shouldn’t ever have their brakes getting hot. Burnt brake fluid has a very chemical smell, so if you’re smelling that at all, make sure to get your brakes inspected.
You’re Noticing that it Takes Longer to Stop
Over time, your brakes are gradually wearing down and that’s normal. You’ll get to a point where it seems like it’s taking longer and longer to stop the car. That’s when you really need to make sure that you get your brakes checked out. If you wait too much longer, they could fail and that can be a huge problem.
Never fool around when it comes to your car’s brakes. Give us a call at Route 20 Auto Essentials in Ashtabula, OH if you suspect that there’s a problem with your car’s brakes. We’ll inspect your brakes for you and let you know what repairs, if any, are necessary for you to get back to enjoying your car.