One of the most common causes of car accidents is a faulty brake. While car manufacturing technology has increased the reliability of braking systems, brake failure can still happen. According to the National Motor Vehicle Crash Causation Survey of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or NHTSA, two percent of all car accidents are due to brake failure.
Ensuring that your car’s braking system is functioning is a must. But how do you know that it is time to replace your brakes? Read on and be guided on the signs that you need to replace your car’s brakes.
When Should I Change My Car’s Brakes?
Brake maintenance should be one of your top priorities as a car owner. Unfortunately, most drivers only notice that their brakes must be fixed when something goes wrong. If you are experiencing car brake problems, contact Pedders and have them checked immediately.
Keeping your brakes working properly can save lives. Here are warning signs that it’s time to get new brakes for your car.
1. Vibrating Brake Pedal
If stopping your car with your current brake pedal proves challenging, and there is vibration or unsteadiness when pressing it down indicates a worn-out brake pedal. A vibrating brake pedal can be dangerous when driving. To prevent any potential accident, you must replace it immediately.
2. Your Brake Pads Appear Less Than ¼ Inch Thick
Another sign that your brakes need replacement is by inspecting the brake pads. Check for wear by inspecting the brake pads through the spaces between the wheel’s spokes. If your brake pads seem less than ¼ inch thick, it is another sign that you need to replace the pads as soon as possible.
3. There is a Squeaking or Squealing Sound from the Brakes
Another indicator that your brakes need to be replaced is when there is already a squeaking or squealing noise coming from the brakes. This may be due to excessively worn-out pads. Once your brake pads are already worn-out, they begin to make a grinding noise. This could eventually damage the rotor, making repairs even more costly.
4. Stopping Your Car Takes Longer Than Usual
This problem is what is called “brake fade.” Generally, this happens due to intentionally applying the brakes over a huge distance without completely stopping. Sometimes this maneuver is necessary, like when driving downhill or over a winding road.
However, if you are frequently doing this, it will wear down your braking mechanism eventually. This will affect both your brake pads and rotor. As a result, your car will not brake as quickly as before.
5. Brake Pad Indicator Light Turns On
Most modern vehicles are equipped with brake warning lights on their dashboard. One is for the Antilock Braking System (ABS), and the other is the warning light for your brake system. The latter is only sometimes when there is a problem. It is also turned on when your parking brake is engaged. However, if the indicator is on but your parking brake is not engaged, you need to check your braking system.
Get a New Brake and Ensure Your Safety
Car brakes can prevent your vehicle from colliding with another car, pedestrian, or structure. At the first sign of trouble, have it checked by a mechanic. You may need to replace it due to wear and tear.
