Euro Autoworks advises that the general recommendation for brake service is every 12,000 miles. What we do at that time is inspect your brake system to see if it needs anything done to it such as a brake fluid flush and refill or a brake pad replacement. Generally, these two services are done every 30,000 miles, but you may need them done sooner. If you ignore your brake system maintenance, you will cause unnecessary damage that will require additional repair work. Here are signs that your brakes are going bad.
ABS/Brake Light Warning
If the ABS or Brake light comes on when you apply the brakes or while you are driving, they are trying to tell you something. These systems have sensors that detect problems and report them to the engine control module. If an error is reported, the associated light will turn on.
Burning or Hot Odors
If you smell burning odors when you apply your brakes, there is a strong chance that your brake system is overheating. This can make driving your European automobile very dangerous as you may not be able to stop it. You may smell burning chemicals or carpet, and the brakes will squeal.
Leaking Brake Fluid
Leaking brake fluid is also an indication of brake system trouble. Specifically, the brake fluid is most likely leaking out of your brake hoses or the master cylinder. Brake fluid is brown or red in color and it generally leaks underneath your vehicle around the wheels.
Pulling to the Side
Pulling to the side when you apply the brakes is an indication that the rotors are warped or you have something stuck in one of the calipers. Your vehicle’s direction should not adjust when you press down on the brake pedal.
Sinking Brake Pedal
If the brake pedal sinks all the way to the floor when you press down on it, you may have air in the brake lines or your master cylinder may be failing. You should get the same resistance every time you press down on the brake pedal.
Strange Brake Sounds
Strange sounds when you apply the brakes also indicate a problem. As we mentioned above, squealing brakes might be overheating. If your brakes are grinding or scraping when you apply them, the brake pads have worn out.
Strange Vibrations/Wobbling
Strange vibrations or wobbling when you apply the brakes can indicate a problem with the calipers or rotors. It’s possible that one of the calipers is stuck or has a rock stuck in it. The rotors may need to be resurfaced.
Call Euro Autoworks in Woodbury, MN, today if your European automobile is experiencing any of the brake problems listed above.