Brake Repair: 5 Warning Signs to Look Out For
Your brakes are the most critical safety system of your vehicle. They enable you to quickly stop or reduce speed, which can effectively prevent accidents. If your brakes are not properly maintained and regularly inspected, they may fail to function when you need them the most. Regrettably, this can jeopardize not only your own safety but also the safety of others on the road and in the vicinity. Fortunately, there are several early warning signs that can help you identify the need for brake repair in St. Petersburg, FL , before it becomes a major issue.
5 SIGNS YOU NEED BRAKE REPAIR IN ST. PETERSBURG, FL
1. YOUR BRAKE SERVICE LIGHT TURNS ON
There is most likely an issue with your brake system if you notice your brake service light illuminated on your dashboard. It’s important to address this situation promptly to ensure your safety on the road. The brake light symbol is a circle with an exclamation mark surrounded by rounded brackets. There are various reasons why a brake light may turn on, and it’s important to address them promptly. Some possible causes include:
- ABS issues
- Activated parking brake
- Brake light switch issues
- Brake pedal problems
- Electrical system malfunction
- Faulty brake fluid sensors
- Low brake fluid
- Worn brake pads
2. SQUEALING OR SQUEAKING
Worn brake pads are the most common reason for noises indicating the need for brake repair. Brake pads are intentionally equipped with a metal indicator that emits a high-pitched sound when they are close to reaching their minimum thickness. The noise you hear is an indication that it is time to replace your brake pads.
Over time, brake pads naturally deteriorate due to environmental factors like moisture and corrosion. Occasionally, they may wear out prematurely due to malfunctioning calipers. Excessively driving at high speeds can also increase the wear and tear of brake pads.
3. VIBRATIONS WHEN BRAKING
When the brake discs wear unevenly, the brake pads make contact with the flat areas on the disc’s surface. This contact creates a vibration, commonly known as brake shudder, which can be felt by the driver.
A brake shudder manifests as a noticeable vibration that can be felt in the steering wheel or brake pedal when applying the brakes. The intensity of the vibration can vary, ranging from a subtle sensation to a more pronounced shaking.
4. VEHICLE PULLS TO ONE SIDE
If your vehicle veers to one side when you apply the brakes, it is likely that there is an issue with the braking system. If one side of the brakes is grabbing harder than the other, it can cause the vehicle to pull to one side. This issue can be caused by a sticking caliper or a problem with the wheel cylinder.
5. UNSTABLE BRAKE PEDAL
If you notice that your brake pedal feels soft and squishy or sinks to the floor, it may be time for a brake repair service. Rust can lead to the formation of holes in brake lines, which can result in the leakage of brake fluid. This issue can result in a decrease in hydraulic pressure, leading to a sensation of a soft or low brake pedal. The presence of air in the brake line can also hinder the smooth flow of brake fluid, leading to a soft and unresponsive brake pedal.
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT FOR HIGH-QUALITY BRAKE REPAIR IN ST. PETERSBURG, FL
At JB Import Automotive Repair, we take immense pride in being a top-rated company that specializes in providing exceptional brake repair services in St. Petersburg, FL. When it comes to your vehicle’s brakes, we understand the importance of safety and reliability. That’s why we go above and beyond to ensure that every brake repair we undertake is carried out with meticulous attention to detail, using only the finest quality parts. Contact us today to learn more.
