Do You Need a Brake Repair? 5 Common Signs

The benefits of timely brake repair are obvious: optimized braking performance, increased safety, improved car handling and it helps prevent costly repairs in the long run. But how can you tell it’s time to schedule a brake system repair service appointment? If you have been asking yourself this question, you’re in luck. Below are five warning signs that you need brake service and repair — courtesy of brake experts from Heartland Chevrolet.

1. Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal

Does your brake pedal feel spongy or soft? Does it take more time than expected to bring your car to a stop? This is a sign of faulty parts in your car’s braking system. Be sure to have an experienced brake expert perform diagnostics to identify the problem and repair it immediately.

A spongy or soft brake pedal can occur due to various reasons including low or drained up brake fluid, corroded calipers, faulty wheel cylinder, or air in your brake line.

2. Vibrating Brakes

It’s normal for cars to vibrate, especially when driving on irregular terrains. But if you experience odd vibrations in your brake pedal, you could be dealing with a potential brake system failure. Schedule a service appointment immediately to find out what is causing the vibrations.

3. Grinding, Squealing, or Rattling Noises

Do your brakes produce strange sounds while stopping? These grinding or squealing sounds commonly signal heavily worn brake pads or shoes. Driving for a long time, especially on messy roads, can strain your car brakes, making the pads wear and tear very fast.

Worn brake pads can cause damage to other parts of your brake system, which can lead to more expensive repairs. If you hear grinding and other unnerving noises while braking, be sure to visit a mechanic immediately to have your brakes fixed.

4. Vehicle Pulling

If your car swerves left or right every time you hit the brakes, this indicates worn brake pads. This can also happen as a result of contaminated brake fluid or faulty wheel cylinder– get them checked out by a professional as soon as possible. The car pulling to one side while braking makes it difficult to control your car, which increases the chances of an accident.

5. Dashboard Indicator

Car dashboards have tons of indicators that will always alert you whenever there is an issue. Every time the brake indicator or anti-lock brake system (ABS) illuminates, you should get concerned. A yellow or red brake indicator could mean your braking system is malfunctioning or your routine brake service is due.

Repairing your car’s brake system car is usually a quick and painless procedure when performed by an experienced and skilled brake specialist. So before you visit an auto shop, ensure you are 100% sure that they have the right skills and will do the job right the first time. If you need brake service, repair, or tune-up, visit Heartland Chevrolet. We provide outstanding and top-notch auto repair and tune-up services; contact our dealership today!

Image courtesy of chevrolet.com

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