It’s never a good idea to put off a brake change. Not only could this cause long-term damage to your car, but it’s also quite dangerous. Signs that it’s time to change your brakes could include grinding sounds, vibration from the brake pedal and delayed brake responsiveness. If you’re worried about your brakes, it’s best to visit a reputable automotive repair shop. A good auto shop in Madison, TN will make replacing your brakes quick and easy.
All drivers should stay informed about common brake replacement signs. This will prevent accidents due to faulty brakes and help increase the longevity of your vehicle.
Check your antilock braking system (ABS) light
This light found in your dashboard will sometimes come on if there’s an issue with your brakes. This isn’t a surefire way of keeping up with the condition of your brakes, though, so it’s best for all Madison, TN drivers to check for other brake replacement signs as well. In modern vehicles, antilock braking system lights turn on when the parking brake is in use and when there are issues with the brakes.
Listen to your car
Certain sounds coming from your car might mean that it’s time to consider replacing your brakes. These sounds could include squeaking, squealing and grinding. Squealing and squeaking sounds often indicate that the brake pads are getting too worn down. Grinding sounds, on the other hand, could signal that your rotors are being affected.
If you hear grinding sounds, be sure to visit an auto shop right away. Rotor replacement and repairs are expensive, especially if you wait too long. One of the best ways of preventing rotor issues is by replacing your brakes as soon as needed.
Is your brake pedal vibrating?
A vibration coming from your brake pedal usually means there’s an issue with your brakes. This vibration usually occurs when braking and could mean your rotors are warped. While brake issues are the most common cause of vibrating brake pedals, they could also signal the need for a wheel alignment. Either way, it’s important to visit a mechanic, as improper wheel alignment could cause long-term damage to your vehicle.
Does braking take longer?
You shouldn’t have trouble braking. If you’re having to apply more pressure to your brake pedal than usual, it’s probably time to change the brakes. Worn-down brakes take longer to stop the vehicle, which is a major safety hazard. You don’t want to realize your brakes aren’t working properly when coming up on a red light or when you have to suddenly slow down for backed-up traffic.
Slower braking could also mean you need more brake fluid. To check this, find the brake master cylinder reservoir in your engine, then peer inside. Most brake master cylinder reservoirs feature a fill line. If the fluid is below this line, add more. Even if it seems like brake fluid is the only issue, you should still see a local mechanic.
When you need help replacing your brakes in Madison, TN, contact the expert mechanics at Madison Muffler & Auto Repair. We’d be glad to schedule an appointment to look at your vehicle!