How do you know if your car’s brakes are bad and need repairs? In the following article, your Cadillac dealer gives you the top signs to look out for to determine when your vehicle needs a brake repair.
1. The Brake Pads Appear Thin
New brake pads have a thickness of around eight to twelve millimeters. Ideally, for the brake pads to properly function, they should be thicker than 6.4 millimeters. Take a look between the wheel spokes to see if your car’s brake pads look worn or are less than a quarter of an inch thick.
When the pads appear thin, you should replace them as soon as possible. The bare minimum is a pad thickness of 3.2 millimeters. It’s best not to wait until your pads are this thin to avoid brake failure.
2. You Hear a High-Pitched Squealing Sound
When your brake pads are worn, you will hear a squealing sound when you apply the brakes. The sound comes from a tiny piece of metal called a wear indicator built into the brake pads to warn you that the pads are thin and need replacing. It’s not urgent, but you should schedule a brake pad replacement for your safety. Ask your technician to replace the pads as soon as possible before they wear too thin and damage the rotors.
3. Txhere Is an Awful Grinding Noise
If you didn’t replace the worn brake pads when you heard the squealing sounds, soon you will hear grinding noises. When the brake pads wear down completely and the bare metal is scraping against the rotors, the awful grinding noises will start. The rotors are being scratched and damaged. They can even get hot enough to melt, causing the brakes to stick. When you hear grinding noises, you urgently need to get to your technician for repairs.
4. It Takes Your Car Longer to Stop
If you step on the brake pedal, but your car is slow to respond, and it takes longer than it does typically to come to a stop, it’s time to visit your dealership for a brake system inspection. The problem could be due to a brake fluid leak, a leaking brake hose, or an air leak. Ask your technician to perform a thorough brake system inspection to determine what is causing the problem.
5. Your Car Is Leaking Brake Fluid
There is a brake fluid leak if there are yellow or brown puddles on the ground under your car. Low brake fluid will trigger your brake warning light and is a serious issue that needs urgent attention from a qualified technician.
6. Your Car Pulls to the Side
When you brake, and your car pulls to the left or right, the brake linings are wearing unevenly. Ask your technician for an adjustment. If the brake fluid is contaminated, your car will also pull to the side. The technician will drain the fluid and replace it.
7. The Brake Pedal Is Vibrating
Rotors warp from excessive hard braking, age, or when they wear too thin. Warped rotors will cause vibrations that you will feel through the brake pedal. If your car’s rotors are damaged, you will have to replace them.
8. You Smell Burning
When your brakes get too hot, it will cause a burning smell. Overheated brakes will not work correctly. It’s best to stop your car and wait for your brakes to cool down. Contact your dealership immediately for assistance.
If you notice any signs, get help as soon as possible. For expert brake system repairs, contact Randall Motors today. Our qualified technicians will perform a thorough brake system inspection and do the necessary maintenance to keep you safe on the road.
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