Unless you are a mechanic or you’ve memorized your owner’s manual, then you probably have not paid much attention to the state of your brakes. But like everything else with your car, prevention is always the best medicine so maintenance is a must. Since you probably can’t look up under the car at the brake system, these are some signs to tell you that it is probably a time to give your brakes a break and bring your vehicle into our Toyota and Honda repair Charleston shop today for a brake job!
What are Brake Pads?
Brake pads are the removable tops that rub up against the rotors when you attempt to stop your car. They don’t last forever, and the more friction that they encounter, the more likely it is you need to replace them. If you don’t pay attention to the state of your brake pads, it can lead to wear and tear to other components of your brake system that can be highly expensive to repair, and unnecessary if you pay attention to what your car is trying to tell you.
Five Signs You Need to Call A Toyota and Honda repair Charleston Company for New Brake Pads
There is a Squealing Noise
Most of us drive with our radio system on and hear very little of the car’s engine, but if you hear a squealing noise, that is a sign that something is wrong. A buzzing, scraping, or squealing sound when you tap on the brakes is a good indication that you need to replace your brake pads. If they wear down too much, it can lead to dangerous conditions and affect the rotor, which is an expensive fix. Although you shouldn’t wait until you hear squealing, if you do hear it, don’t ignore it!
A Clicking Noise
Most cars’ brake pads are custom fit and held down by a device, while others use pins, clips, or bolts. The idea behind any of the systems to hold them in place is to make sure that the brake pads stay put. If somehow they do become loose, they will start to rattle. A clicking sound is a good indication that your brake pads aren’t staying where they are supposed to, which is something that you need to have a look at.
It Takes Longer to Stop
“Brake fade” is when it takes you longer to stop the car than it used to. It typically is a result of relying heavily on your brakes – too heavily in some cases – so they begin to wear down. When your brake pads make contact with rotors for extended periods, it can greatly reduce the amount of the pads and will make it harder for your car to come to a complete and immediate stop. If you feel like you have to put pressure on the brakes and the vehicle is slow to stop, it is something that you want to have looked at.
Your Car Pulls to One Side When Applying the Brakes
Brake pads won’t wear evenly on both sides, which can create an imbalance. If one brake pad is significantly more worn than the other, it might lead your car to sway to one side when you apply the brakes. Although other scenarios might be going on, if your car drifts to one side consistently, then it is something you want to have looked at.
The Brake Pedal Begins to Vibrate
If your brake pedal suddenly begins to vibrate when you press on it, then that might be a sign that your brake pads are worn. When your brake pads get overheated, the resin on them might not distribute evenly, which is called “glazing” and will cause the pedal to vibrate.
Whenever you feel like things aren’t the same when operating your car, it is a good idea to investigate. It is never a good idea to ignore something that isn’t right with your car; likely, it will just get more expensive, and it rarely – if ever – just goes away. If you are wondering if your brakes need to have a break, they probably do. The best way to know for sure is to come into our Toyota and Honda repair service in Charleston today. Car issues are nothing to mess around with – you have too much riding on your car wheels!
