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As one of your vehicle’s most important safety components, you don’t want anything to go wrong with your brakes. Unfortunately, putting off brake repairs could result in brake failure at the time when you need this system the most. By knowing the warning signs, you can get repairs before the problem gets out of hand.

How to Tell When It’s Time for Brake Repairs

1. Unusual Noises During Braking

Squealing or screeching occurs when the brake pads are worn down, and the metal parts are pressing against each other. This occurs as friction gradually wears away the material comprising the pads.

A failure to replace the brake pads quickly could eventually result in a grinding sound as the pressure from the brake shoe causes grooves in the rotor. Damaged brake rotors will keep you from being able to stop the car as quickly as you should.

2. Vibrating, Spongy or Fallen Brake Pedal

brake repairAn uneven brake rotor (caused by the calipers scratching or warping the rotor) might cause the brake pedal to vibrate or wobble. Master cylinder problems or air penetration (which often occurs when the brake fluid overheats) will cause the brake pedal to feel spongy when you press on it.

In severe cases, this could cause the pedal to fall all the way to the floor, rather than stopping a few inches above the surface. Mechanics can fix this by “bleeding” the air from the system and replacing the brake fluid.

3. Burning Smell

If the brakes or clutch overheat, you will likely notice a burning, chemical scent when you step on the pedal. This can result from overheating brake fluid or a stuck brake caliper.

This most often occurs when you overwork the brakes, such as when driving in mountainous areas. However, the caliper may get stuck because of rust buildup. Pull over immediately to avoid a catastrophic brake failure and call a tow truck. Replacing the brake fluid or the caliper will fix the problem.

 

Whether you find yourself in need of brake repairs or a wheel alignment, you can count on H & S Tire & Auto Center in Wentzville, MO, to keep your car in top shape. With over 70 years of combined experience, the ASE-certified auto mechanics at this shop will provide friendly and effective service. To learn more about their work or to request a free estimate, visit them online or call (636) 327-5225.

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