6 Signs of Brake Trouble

One of the biggest responsibilities you have as a car owner is ensuring that your vehicle remains safe. The best way to do that is by paying attention to any signs that your vehicle is giving you that it is time for brake repair. The brakes are the most important safety feature of your car, as they can help prevent accidents, as long as they are in good shape. If you experience any of these signs of brake problems be sure to head to your local auto shop to have the issue repaired.

Dashboard Indicator Light

The ABS light on your dashboard illuminates when there is a problem with the brakes that is being detected by a sensor. To ensure the problem does not lead to brake failure head to the shop right away to have the problem properly diagnosed.

Soft Brake Pedal

A brake pedal that is easy to push to the floor and doesn’t offer much response can indicate low brake pads. However it is often a more serious problem, such as air in the brake lines or a brake fluid leak.

Visible Fluid Leak

Speaking of brake fluid leaks, if you ever notice a clearish brown fluid, likely collecting near one of the wheels, there is a good chance that it is brake fluid. If this fluid is leaking from your vehicle you should be sure to not drive your car until it is inspected by a mechanic, as this leak can cause you to lose all braking power.

Shakey Brake Pedal

If your brake pedal vibrates as you slow it may mean that your vehicle has warped rotors. This means there is not a sufficient amount of surface area for the pads to grab in order to properly slow your vehicle. If it is really bad your steering wheel or whole car may shake as well.

Vehicle Pulling

Your vehicle should continue moving in a straight line as you slow down. If your car pulls to the left or right when the brakes are applied it may mean that there is uneven wear on the brake pads but bigger problems can cause this as well. Impurities in the brake fluid or a stuck wheel cylinder may cause this issue to be persistent.

Grinding Noise

One of the most common symptoms of brake trouble is a grinding or squealing noise that happens when the brakes are hit. This means that the pads are completely worn down and metal is grinding on metal, which is a very ineffective way to slow your vehicle!

At the first sign of brake trouble head to the auto repair shop. For expert brake repair in Gretna bring your car, truck or SUV to West Transmissions and Total Auto Care. Give us a call today at 504-362-6947 to schedule an appointment for professional transmission or other auto repair in Gretna!

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