Oakland, CA – Common Brake Repair Warning Signs from an Auto Repair Shop

As a car owner, it is essential to pay attention to your vehicle so you are able to notice any weird behaviors in its functioning. This makes it easier to identify warning signs of malfunctioning or faulty components. But paying attention is not just enough, you need to know the kinds of warning signs to expect.

Luckily, our auto repair shop has compiled a list of common warning signs which indicates problems in your vehicles braking systems. This guide will explore some common brake repair warning signs, problems they may signify, and the next thing to do when these signs are observed.

Grinding Noises While Braking

If you experience grinding or squealing noises every time you brake, then it is a warning sign of worn-out brake pads which need to be replaced immediately. The grinding sound originates from the direct contact between the brakes and the wheels, without the brake pads serving as a cushion. As mentioned earlier, the only way to resolve this issue is to replace the brake pads entirely. Make sure to get high quality brake pads which are harder, and last for longer periods of time.

Vibrations In The Brake Pedal

If the brake rotors are warped or uneven, you might experience vibrations or pulsations anytime you try to stop or slow down the car. The unevenness of the brake rotors will be resurfaced or machined on a brake lathe to create an even rotor which eradicates the vibrations.

Dashboard Warning Lights

Certain warning lights in the dashboard indicate issues with the braking system. A common issue is the Anti-lock Braking System, identified by a warning light with the letters “ABS”. This means the ABS sensors are malfunctioning, or the vehicle has low brake fluid levels or other electric problems in the braking system.

Pulling During Braking

Pulling is a situation whereby the vehicle tilts towards one side when the brakes are applied. When the brake pads wear unevenly, one side might have a greater stopping power than the other causing one part of the car to move slower than the other. This effect is typically slight but noticeable. It should be treated immediately to avoid further damages and complications.

Longer Braking Distances

One single malfunctioning component could cause the brakes to lose its effectiveness, making the brakes take longer times to slow down or come to a stop, thereby resulting in longer braking distances. The most likely culprit is the brake pads, they become worn out and lose their stopping power over time.

Conclusion

While a majority of these signs are easily observable, some of them still need to be inspected by professionals to determine the root cause of the problems. Going to a reliable auto repair shop gives you access to technicians who will inspect, diagnose, and provide a solution to the problem. The next time you notice any of the above problems, you just need to bring your vehicle to us, and be rest assured of the warning signs and their problems being as good as gone.