Tuesday, August 1, 2017

Spot the Signs of Brake Wear

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– Your brakes are some of the most important components on your vehicle. Keeping your brakes in peak condition is the best way to keep safe on the road. Without properly maintained brakes, you'll have trouble slowing down and can damage important components of your vehicle. While you may not think about them too often, knowing how to spot the signs of brake wear will save you costly repairs in the future and will keep you safe while you drive.

Spot the Signs of Brake Wear

Braking Takes Longer than Normal


One of the easiest ways to find out whether or not your brakes need replacing is by testing the brakes yourself. If you're noticing that it's taking longer to slow down than it used to, you may be experiencing brake fade. Brake fade is most common when drivers brake for extended periods of time, causing the pads to make repeated contact with the rotors for long periods of time, increasing friction and wearing down their components. Driving in hilly areas and repeatedly braking over the course of your drive can negatively impact your vehicle. Following our brake service advice can extend the life of your brake pads and make all the difference in the world on the road!

Screeching Sound While You Brake


If you hear a loud screeching sound when you brake, it may be time to have your brakes looked at. The piece causing the noise, called an indicator, is used to inform you when your brakes have been worn down so that know it's time to get them checked out. Typically, this screeching occurs when your brake pads need replacing. Your brake pads are one of the most important components of your brakes, as they're the main line of defense when it comes to braking on the road. Schedule an appointment with us to have your brake pads looked at if you hear any screeching while you brake!

Grinding Sounds While Braking


Do you hear a louder grinding sound whenever you apply the brakes? This sound can happen when your brakes' calipers and discs rub together, causing the components to warp, or "score", creating an uneven surface. With uneven surfaces on your brakes, you're unable to effectively slow down, which can lead to further vehicle damage and costly repairs. Pay attention to the signs of rotor repair to determine whether or not your vehicle will require additional maintenance!

Vibrating Brake Pedal


If your brake pedal vibrates as you apply pressure to it, it could mean that your vehicle needs realignment or rotor replacement. Rotors can become warped under conditions of extreme heat and pressure. This can occur when you brake for long periods of time, and can usually occur when drivers excessively brake driving downhill. You feel a vibration on the brake pedal because the brakes are unable to grip the road efficiently. If you feel your brake pedals beginning to vibrate, be sure to give your vehicle's brakes time to cool down and get them inspected if you're worried!

Vehicle Turns While Braking


If your vehicle forces or pulls you to the left or right while you brake, it can mean that your brake linings have been unevenly worn or that your brake fluid may need flushing and replacing. Uneven brake linings can cause one brake pad to work less effectively than the other, causing an awkward distribution of weight, which can make the vehicle turn on its own. Brake fluid, on the other hand, keeps the components of your brakes lubricated. Over time, brake fluid can run low, which can cause an uneven distribution of fluid to brake pads and make the vehicle pull in a specific direction. If you're noticing your vehicle turn while you brake, contact us right away and we'll happily help you get your brakes back up to speed!

It never hurts to have your brakes looked at, especially if they're screeching, grinding, vibrating, or causing your vehicle to turn. If you can spot the signs of brake wear, you'll be able to remain ahead of the curve in the event that you need your brakes repaired or replaced. For the rest of the month of August, we're offering free brake inspections, so if you're worried about the status of your brakes, have our knowledgable Service Staff take a look at them, free of charge! We also offer brake repair coupons if you do need your brakes repaired or replaced to help you save some money. For more advice on brake maintenance, take a look at our brake service advice page for a quick walkthrough on preventative maintenance for your brakes!

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: http://www.northbrosford.net

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