It’s important to pay attention to your brake system when you use it to make sure nothing is wrong. For example, if your brakes have started to squeal when you press down on the brake pedal, your brake pad surfaces may be too low and the pads need to be replaced. Accurate Auto is going to list the signs of brake problems below so you know when to bring your vehicle to our shop for brake service or repair.
Dashboard Warning Light
Your vehicle’s dashboard may be the first thing to warn you of brake problems. For example, if the ABS light comes on and remains lit, the anti-lock brake system has a malfunction. If the Brake light comes on and remains lit when you don’t have the parking brake set, the brake system has a problem.
Noise When Braking
As we mentioned above, squealing noises when you apply the brakes could mean that your brake pad surfaces are too low. Squealing can also mean that the brakes are overheating. Scraping or grinding sounds are the sounds of the brake pad backings pressing against the rotors. This can damage the rotors.
Vibration When Braking
Damaged rotors will make your vehicle vibrate when you apply the brakes. If there is a small piece of road debris stuck in a caliper, this, too, will make your car, truck, or C/SUV wobble when you apply the brakes. Applying the brakes should never make your automobile shake.
Leaking Brake Fluid
If you see brown or red spots on your garage floor, the brake system could be leaking. The most common location for a brake fluid leak is out of the brake hoses. This being said, the brake fluid can also leak out of the master cylinder if it is bad and needs to be replaced.
Spongy Brake Pedal
A spongy brake pedal that feels too soft underneath your foot is an indication that the master cylinder is damaged and needs to be replaced. Another reason why your brake pedal will feel squishy is air bubbles that have made their way into the brake lines. We can bleed the brake lines to remove the air.
Overheating Brakes
Finally, if you hear squealing and smell something hot, your brakes are overheating. Please be aware that overheating brakes will fail once they get too hot. As such, it’s a good idea to pull over and have your vehicle towed to our shop.
Accurate Auto is located throughout Oregon to serve you. Call the auto service shop closest to you, whether that’s in Beaverton, Hillsboro, Lake Oswego, or Tigard. We’d be happy to repair your brakes and send you on your way safe on the road once again.