Maintaining the brakes of your vehicle is extremely important to ensure the safety of everyone sharing the road with you. Every driver needs to know the warning signs that suggest your car’s brakes may need professional attention. Finding reliable mechanics in Preston for brake repairs and brake services is crucial to ensure your car operates safely. Look out for these signs to prevent potential accidents and costly repairs.
Squealing or Grinding Noises
One of the most common signs that your brakes need a check is when you start hearing unusual noises. A high-pitched squeal each time you apply the brakes is often a sign that the brake pads are worn out. On the other hand, a grinding noise can indicate that the brake pads have worn down completely, causing the metal of the calipers and the metal of the rotors to rub against each other. This can damage your rotors, leading to a more expensive repair.
Wobbling or Vibration When Braking
If you feel a wobbling sensation or vibration through the brake pedal or steering wheel when you apply the brakes, it could be a sign that your rotors are uneven or warped. Rotors can wear down over time due to the intense heat generated by the friction of braking. Mechanics in Heidelberg can assess and possibly resurface or replace the rotors to rectify this issue.
Longer Stopping Distances
Noticing that your car takes longer to stop than usual can be alarming. This can often be due to brake fluid problems or air in the brake lines, both of which affect the hydraulic pressure in your braking system. Regular brake service in Preston is required to ensure that the brake fluid is clean and at the correct level and that there are no leaks in the system.
Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal
If your brake pedal feels unusually soft or sinks to the floor when pressed, this is a critical sign of brake failure. It could indicate an issue with your brake fluid or master cylinder. This situation requires immediate attention from qualified brake repair specialists to avoid potential brake failure on the road.
Pulling to One Side When Braking
When your car pulls to one side without turning the steering wheel, this could be a sign that the brake linings are wearing unevenly or that there is foreign matter in the brake fluid. This unevenness can cause one side of the car to brake more forcefully than the other, leading to dangerous driving conditions.
Burning Smell While Driving
Experiencing a sharp, chemical odour after repeated hard braking, especially down a steep road, is a warning sign. This could indicate that your brakes are overheated. If you notice this smell, it’s important to pull over safely and let the brakes cool down to avoid overheating the brake fluid, which can lead to brake failure.
Brake Warning Light
Never ignore the brake warning light on your dashboard. This is your car’s direct method of telling you that something is wrong with the brake system. Whether it is a problem with the anti-lock brake system or with the brake fluid levels, it is crucial to get professional brake repairs in Preston.
Brake safety is not something to be taken lightly. If you notice any of these signs, it is advisable to seek expert help as soon as possible. Properly working braking system is also crucial to get roadworthy certificate in Preston. So, don’t wait until it’s too late keep your brakes in check and enjoy a safer driving experience.
For top-quality brake service and repairs across Preston, Northcote, Reservoir, Heidelberg, Coburg, Bundoora, Coburg North, Heidelberg West and Thornbury, choose Albert ST Automotive. We are dedicated to ensuring your vehicle’s brakes are in optimal condition for your safety and peace of mind. Don’t compromise on your vehicle’s performance or your safety—call us today at (03) 9470 1052 to schedule your service.