Are your car brakes in need of replacing?
Your vehicles brake pads are a crucial element of the braking system. They enable your car to slow down and stop safely. The brake pads are located inside the brake caliper that sits firmly on the each wheels brake disc. When the brakes are applied this presses the brake pads against the brake discs making the your car come to stop or slow down. Brake pads are made of special friction material and wear out over time and must be replaced.
Like any other system in your car, your brakes need to be regularly maintained and inspected to make sure they are working correctly and effectively.
Your registration E-Safety check or your vehicles Log Book Service are both great opportunities for a qualified mechanic to check the condition of your brakes, to make sure they are in good condition and do not need to be replaced. Furthermore you should also always be on the lookout for warning signs that tell you your brakes are due to ne replaced or if they are not in excellent condition.
Signs your car brakes aren’t working properly
Your car doesn’t stop as well as it used to: This could be due to a number of reasons. Your brake discs could be old or worn causing your brake pads not to grip less well.
A grinding sound when you apply your brakes: If you hear a grinding noise when you brake, it could mean your brake pads or discs need replacing. Most modern Brake pads have a wear indicator that makes a noise when it contacts the brake disc. When your pads are worn to this extent, it is likely you will need to replace the discs too.
Leaks on the inner wheels: Your braking system is very complex. If there are worn seals, loose connections or split hoses in the system, brake fluid can leak out. This can make your brakes less effective. Your should always look out for fluid on your wheels, or on the ground where you regularly park your car.
Pulling to the left or right: Your car should drive straight when you brake, if it doesn’t, and if it pulls to the left or right, it could be a serious problem. If your brakes are worn more on one side than the other, pulling to one side may occur. Another potential cause may be a sticking brake caliper.
Vibration: If you notice vibrations through your steering wheel or brake pedal as you slow down, your should get your brakes checked. A vibrating brake pedal is a sign that your brake discs are warped.
Brake pedal sinks to the floor: If you have to press the pedal a long way down before the car starts to slow down, this could be due to your brake system leaking brake fluid which is very serious. and should be looked at urgently by a qualified mechanic.
Warning brake light: If your dashboard is displaying the brake warning light, get your car checked immediately. This is likely an indication that there is an issue with your brake hydraulic system. This must be addressed as soon as possible to avoid a serious accident.
What should I do if I think my car brakes aren’t working properly
If for any reason, you think your brakes aren’t stopping your car as well as they should, Call Roselands Automotive and book in for a brake check as soon as you can.
How should I maintain my car brakes?
When you get your car Serviced our technician will advise you on the condition of your brakes and when the various parts of the system need to be replaced.