If there is a part of your car that should always be in tiptop working condition, it is your brake system.
It is important to know the signs of failing brakes therefore you can have them serviced immediately to insure you and your passengers safely. Effective braking could be the difference between a serious accident and driving away without a scratch. Here are common signs that your vehicle needs brake service.
Visible Wear-And-Tear
A visual inspection of your brakes is a simple way to check the condition of your braking system. Check your brake fluid level brake master cylinder reservoir and the thickness of your brake pads. If the pads are less than a 1/4 inch thick, it is time for a brake service.
Driveway Oil Spots
Check your driveway where your car is normally parked for any oil spots. Brake fluid looks like engine oil but thinner. This is a clear sign of brake issue and one that needs to be tended to urgently as it impacts your ability to stop the car.
High-Pitched Screeching
Your brakes are designed to generate a high-pitched screeching noise to let you know that the pads have gotten worn out and it’s time to replace them. This involves a small piece of metal built into your brake pads that creates the screeching noise, which stops when the brakes are applied. The system is designed to let you know that you brake pads are running low and it is time to replace them.
Grinding Noise When Braking
A grinding noise when applying the brakes is likely an indication of no, or very little, brake pads left thus causing metal to grind on metal. In such cases you If this is the case you would need to take immediate action to replace or resurface your rotors (or drums in the case of older cars) and replace the pads to restore it to the safe condition and avoid further damage to your brake system.
Car Vibrates or Shakes When the Brakes Are Applied
If your card vibrates or shakes when you apply the brakes, there is a good chance that you have warped or worn out (too thin) rotors. When you apply Warped rotors will greatly reduce the effectiveness of the brake system. Older classic cars have either all drum brakes or rotors in front and drums in the rear.
Soft or Slow Responding Brake System
If you have to push your brake pedal excessively to get a response or it feels that your brakes aren’t stopping your car fast enough after you apply them, this could indicate worn out brake pads or a more serious leaky brake system.
Car Pulls to One Side When Braking
If your car pulls to one side when applying the brakes, there is likely chance of issues with the brake system. Potential cause could be contaminated brake fluid, leaky brake lines or uneven wear on brake pads. It’s imperative to have your brake system checked as soon as possible.If you experience any signs of failing brakes give us a call and bring your car in for service. A properly working brake system is especially important to your safety.
At Angel’s El Toro Transmission, honesty, integrity, and the quality of our work have been the foundation of our success. Your complete satisfaction will always be our main concern.
Angel’s Transmission and Auto Repair has been serving clients in Mission Viejo and nearby communities for almost three decades. Our technicians are continuously training to stay updated on the latest information and technology. The skilled and certified technicians average 20 years of experience in the Automotive Repair Industry.
Call us today at (949) 587-9060 for an appointment or fill out our contact form and let us help you with transmission repair services or general auto repair.
