Brakes are a critical part of your driving safety, so if there’s a problem with your brakes, you need to know it. You might even be at a point where you need new brakes. Your Cottman center can help analyze your brakes and make sure they’re in like-new condition.
Generally speaking, any noticeable changes in your car’s brakes — whether it’s a noise, a roughness, a difference in how the pedal feels, etc. — should be checked by a qualified technician.
Are Your Brakes Working Properly?
Here are a few signs to help determine if your brakes are working properly when you think you might be having brake problems:
- Squealing noises when you apply the brakes are often just that: noises. They don’t usually indicate a serious problem. But they are annoying and can be corrected with a few minor adjustments to the brake pads.
- Grinding or scraping sounds are often more serious; they indicate the brakes are worn out and are allowing the rivets or backing plates to scrape against the rotors. If you catch them early you may avoid additional expenses.
- If you notice a consistent squealing noise that goes away when you touch the brakes, you may need new brake pads. The squeal is caused by a wear indicator that’s just beginning to touch the rotors.
- Any pulling to one side, chattering, or vibrating when you touch the brakes indicates a problem that needs to be addressed. These could be simple repairs or they may be more serious. Either way, get them checked.
- If the brake pedal fades as you’re applying it, you have a hydraulic problem. Once again, this is something you need to have checked, as it can cause you to lose your brakes entirely.
Brake Service Technicians
The most important thing to remember is, if you notice a change, and think you might need new brakes don’t play around: Get your car into Cottman and have your brakes checked professionally.