What Are The Signs Of Braking Issues?
Many different signs of braking issues can come up while you are on the road. Here are some signs to watch out for.
Stop Time Has Increased
Your stop time should remain consistent; if you find that you need more time to come to a stop, it's time to see an auto brakes specialist.
Car Turns While Braking
If your car spins out a little bit when you brake, that is a good sign that one of your brakes is not working properly. When all braking systems are working right, the car will stay straight as you brake. But if one of the brakes is out, the others will have to overcompensate, and the car will spin slightly as you brake.
Fluid Leaks Are Apparent
Fluid leaks can be a sign of several different car problems; it could be an oil leak, a transmission leak, or a hydraulic braking fluid leak. Any of these three needs to be checked out by auto repair shops because they can quickly lead to a breakdown.
Burnt Rubber Smell
A burnt rubber smell is a good sign that your tires are taking a beating whenever you brake. Tires provide friction for your car as you brake, but they shouldn't be the only friction point.
Noises When Braking
Noises when you're braking can come in many different forms. Sometimes it's a squealing noise. Other times, it sounds more like grinding. Either way, it's not a good sign. Your brakes might need to be realigned, or your brake pads might need to be replaced; the goal is to prevent metal parts from coming in contact with each other as you brake.
Brake Light On
And finally, your brake light is a good indicator of braking problems. But it shouldn't be relied on completely; the signs above are also important to watch for. Some cars have multiple brake lights; there could be a light that denotes a problem with your anti-lock braking system, and another that comes on if you don't have enough traction during an actual braking event.
If you notice any of these issues, it is a good idea to schedule a brake evaluation as soon as you can. Some braking issues start out as a quick, affordable fix and start to get more expensive if they are left to cause additional damage. At the same time, having good brakes in your car is one of the most important things you can do to lessen the chance of a severe accident. Contact an auto repair shop like AutoMedics for additional information.