CAR FIX recommends that you bring your vehicle to one of our shops every 12,000 miles for a brake inspection. This ensures that the brake system is always reliable. This system is the most important safety system in your automobile. Regular inspections make sure we catch problems before they evolve into the dangerous issues listed below.
ABS or Brake Warning Light
If you’re ABS or Brake light turns on and does not turn off, the brake system is malfunctioning. The only other time these lights should turn on is when you first start your automobile. As an aside, the Brake light will also turn on when you have the parking brake set.
Burning Odors/Overheating
These lights may turn on if your brake system is overheating. This can turn into a dangerous situation quickly because an overheating brake system fails. Signs that your brake system is getting too hot include squealing noises and burning odors.
Changes in the Brake Pedal’s Feel
It can also be dangerous if your brake pedal sinks to the floor or gets soft and spongy. This can prevent your automobile from slowing down and stopping. Things that cause this problem include air bubbles in the brake lines or a malfunctioning master cylinder.
Leaking Brown or Red Fluid
Leaking brake fluid can also open you up to the dangerous situation of being unable to stop your automobile. If you see brown or red spots on your garage floor near the wheels, have your vehicle towed to our shop right away so we can find the brake system leak and fix it.
Noises When Using the Brakes
When you apply the brakes, the only thing you should hear is the RPMs in your engine slowing down. If you hear squealing noises, again, your brake system could be overheating. Although not as dangerous, grinding sounds indicate that your brake pad surface has worn away.
Pulling When Using the Brakes
It’s possible that your vehicle will pull to the side when you use the brakes. This is usually caused by a stuck caliper and it can make driving your automobile dangerous if the pulling is severe. We can check the calipers and replace the one that is stuck.
Wobbling When Using the Brakes
Finally, your automobile should not wobble when you apply the brakes. If it does, you need to have the rotor surfaces recut. If the surfaces are not cut correctly, they may be unable to generate friction with the brake pads to stop your automobile.
Call CAR FIX in Crossville, Cookeville, Oak Ridge, Maryville, or Knoxville, TN, today to schedule an appointment for a brake inspection if it’s been 12,000 miles since your last one.
