23 Aug How to Tell When Your Brakes Are Failing
Your car’s brakes are the difference between a safe ride home and a major collision. As an essential safety feature, it’s important for you to know when your brakes need to be replaced or repaired. In most cases, if your brakes are failing, there will be noticeable signs. At National Auto Collision Centers in Tucson, we want to give you the knowledge you need to ensure your safety and keep your car in good condition. Here are some key signs that indicate your brakes may be failing.
- Visible Wear and Tear
One of the easiest signs of brake issues to notice is visible wear on the brake pads. If you can see that the thickness of the brake pads is less than a quarter of an inch, it’s definitely time to get them replaced. Worn-out brake pads are less effective and will cause your car to stop less quickly.
- High-Pitched Screeching
A high-pitched screeching sound when you apply the brakes is almost always a sign that your brake pads are due for a change. This sound is caused by a metal shim indicator, which is designed to let you know when pads are getting too thin. This means that the screeching sound isn’t necessarily causing damage to your brakes, but if you let it go on for too long, the pads will completely wear away. Once your brakes are metal on metal, it can damage the rotors, which is very expensive to repair.
- Screeching Even if Your Pads Are New
If your brakes screech even after replacing the pads, there could be other issues at play. It might be a sign of improperly fitted brake pads or issues with the brake caliper. It’s best to have your brakes inspected by a professional as soon as you can.
- Slow to Stop
When your brakes feel unresponsive or you notice that your car isn’t stopping as soon as you hit the brakes, there is definitely a problem. The issue might be because of air in your hydraulic brake lines, worn-out brake pads, or low brake fluid. No matter what issue it is, you should get your brakes checked out right away.
- Vibrating Brake Pedal
A vibrating or pulsating brake pedal when engaged is often a sign of warped rotors. Warped rotors can happen because of severe braking for extended periods, like driving in hilly terrain.
- Brakes That Are Very Sensitive or Insensitive
If your brakes respond too sensitively or require much more pressure than usual, it’s an indication that something is off. Overly sensitive brakes could be due to moisture in the brake fluid, and insensitive brakes could mean that your pads are worn down.
Contact National Auto Collision Centers in Tucson Today
If you notice any of these signs of failing brakes, don’t hesitate to bring your vehicle to our experts at National Auto Collision Centers in Tucson. Contact our Broadway Blvd. location at (520) 760-5536 today to schedule your brake repair service!