It’s vital that your brakes work properly every single time you need to use them. Brown Automotive wants you to be aware of these signs of big brake problems.
The Brake Pedal Feels Off Somehow
It’s funny, but sometimes the smallest changes can be a big sign that something is different. With your car’s brakes, that might mean that you go to apply the brakes and the brake pedal just feels different. You might have to press the pedal harder to get any brake action or you might feel that the pedal just feels softer or squishier. Regardless, if the pedal feels different, don’t ignore that.
You’re Smelling Burnt Brake Fluid
Burnt brake fluid is a distinctive smell. It’s often described as being similar to burnt chemicals or carpet that’s been burned. It’s not a good odor at all, and once you’ve smelled it once you are unlikely to forget it. Smelling that now? You probably have a brake fluid leak somewhere.
You’re Seeing Puddles of Brake Fluid
The brake fluid itself is brown and very greasy. It’s most likely that if you have a leak, you’ll spot it around one or more of your wheels. But you can have a brake fluid leak just about anywhere, so be alert for signs that there is a leak somewhere in the brake line system.
Your Brakes Are Making Bad Noises
Normally your brakes might make some noises once in a while, but they’re not likely to be really noisy. So, if you’re hearing grinding sounds, squeaks, or squeals when you apply the brakes, that’s something you need to pay attention to. Typically, this means that you’ve worn down the brake pads and it’s time to get them replaced. But some of these sounds can mean that there’s something else wrong, so getting your brakes inspected is crucial.
The Car Shudders When You Apply the Brakes
When you apply the brakes, something else to pay attention to is whether the car shudders when you do. If so, that can mean that there may be a warp in the brake rotor, causing the brake pad to be unable to connect properly with the rotor to stop the car. There can be other causes of shuddering when you apply the brakes, too.
Noticing something isn’t right with your brakes? Don’t let the problem get worse. Contact us at Brown Automotive in Trussville, AL today and we can set up an appointment for you. We’ll diagnose the problem and recommend the right repair for your car.