If your car, truck, or utility vehicle vibrates when you apply the brakes, you might have a tiny rock stuck in one of the calipers. It’s also possible that the rotor surface is warped and needs to be recut. You should not feel any vibration or wobbling when you apply the brakes. If you do, you have a brake problem. Cergizan’s Auto and Truck Repair lists the other signs of brake problems below.
Dashboard Warning
One indication of brake problems is a dashboard warning light. Your dashboard has an ABS and Brake light. If either of these lights turns on while you apply the brakes or while you are driving, they are telling you there’s a problem with the brake system.
Burning Odors
Burning odors, such as rubber, chemicals, or carpet are an indication that the brake system is overheating. When this happens, you run the risk of losing the ability to stop your car, truck, or utility vehicle. Pull over to safety right away if your brake system smells hot.
Brake Fluid Leaks
Brake fluid will leak out of the brake hoses. It can also leak out of the master cylinder. Brake fluid is light brown or red, and, as with overheating brakes, you can lose the ability to stop your car if the brake fluid is too low. Don’t take chances. Have your vehicle towed to our repair shop.
Side Pulling
A stuck caliper will make your vehicle pull to that side when you apply the brakes. In other words, if the caliper is stuck on your right, front wheel, your vehicle will veer to the right when you press down on the brake pedal. Fixing the caliper will resolve the problem.
Spongy/Sinking Pedal
Your brake pedal should stop about 1 1/2 inches from the floorboard. If it sinks lower than that or feels spongy, you have air in the brake lines. This can prevent you from stopping your automobile, so make sure to, again, have your car, truck, or C/SUV towed to our shop.
Squealing/Grinding Sounds
Finally, squealing sounds can be an indication of overheating brakes. They are also a sign that you need to replace your brake pads. If you hear grinding noises when you apply the brakes, the pads are already worn down to the backing. This can damage the rotors.
Cergizan’s Auto and Truck Repair in Chesterton, IN, would be happy repair your brakes. You can set up an appointment by calling us or scheduling it online.