Warning Signs You Need New Brakes
If you’re a driver near Shreveport, Bossier City, and Stonewall, the Rountree Ford team is dedicated to making sure that your car is in its best possible condition. One way of accomplishing this is by helping you determine whether it’s time to have your brakes replaced. The following is a guide on the major warning signs that will let you know when you need new brakes.
While a typical brake’s lifespan generally ranges from 25,000 to 70,000 miles, certain influences like roads conditions, the quality of the brake itself, and driving behavior can come into play to significantly affect that range. Take a moment to review the information below so that you’ll be able to recognize these warning signs!
Distinct Pulling While Braking
This warning sign can be the result of dirty brake fluid or unevenly worn brakes. Either way, you should have your brakes checked if this is happening.
The Brake Warning Light Turns On
If you notice that your dashboard’s brake warning light has suddenly turned on during one of your regular commutes, it’s imperative that you have it inspected by a certified technician as soon as you can. The technician will be able to locate and resolve the issue, and in turn, you’ll avoid more serious damage down the line.
A Burning Smell Coming from the Vicinity of Your Brakes
When brakes overheat, they give off an unmistakable burning smell. Your brakes can overheat when they’ve been applied for a prolonged period of time. Once brakes have overheated, they will be considerably less effective due to a slippery residue that forms on the surface from overheating.
Slower Stopping Power When Braking
If you’re noticing that you have to increasingly push harder on the brake pedal to come to a complete stop, this might be the result of an issue referred to as “fading.” Fading is what can happen when your brake system has an air or fluid leak. If you suspect a leak, you can usually check yourself by keeping an eye out for puddles of brake fluid on the pavement around your car.
Vibrating Brakes
If you feel vibrating when you push down on your brake pedal, it could be the result of a number of issues. The two major possibilities are that your car is in need of an alignment or your brake rotor is warped. Either way, vibrating brakes are a sure sign that you should have your car checked out by a certified technician as soon as possible.
Strange Sounds
You should also have your brakes looked at if you hear grinding, squeaking, or clicking noises when you apply them. These sounds are letting you know that your brake pads are either too worn down or loose.
Be Sure to Keep an Eye on Your Brakes
If you have any questions about this information, or you think you might be experiencing one or more of these warning signs during your Shreveport, Bossier City, and Stonewall commutes, contact Rountree Ford. We’ll be happy to schedule your appointment with our service department right away!