You love your European automobile and you’d do anything for it. Make sure you bring it to Euro Autoworks every 12,000 miles for a brake system check. It’s important to replace brake parts as they wear down. If you keep using your brakes with worn parts, you’ll damage the system further and might even impede your ability to slow down and stop. Here are signs that your European automobile needs a brake service as soon as possible.
Brake Light
Your brake light should only come on when you set the parking brake. Other than that, you will see it light up when you first start your car, but it will turn off almost immediately. If the brake light comes on at any other time, or if your ABS or pad wear indicator light turns on, you need brake servicing.
Burning/Squealing
Burning smells or burning smells accompanied by squealing sounds mean that your brakes are overheating. We aren’t exaggerating when we say that your brake system is at critical mass if it’s overheating. If you continue to drive, the brake system will fail eventually.
Fluid Leaks
Brake fluid is sometimes clear when it’s brand-new but usually it’s light brown. If you see light or dark brown spots underneath your wheels, it is most likely brake fluid. It isn’t a good idea to top off your brake fluid as it will overflow once you have new brake pads put on. Have a professional find the fluid leak.
Noise
Your brakes might make noise if they’re brand-new or wet, but other than that, braking should be silent unless you slam on the brakes and your tires squeal. Any sounds coming from the brakes, such as grinding, scraping, or squeaking mean your brake system needs some preventative maintenance.
Pulling
A stuck caliper will pull your vehicle to the side of the stuck part when you apply the brakes. Your automobile shouldn’t pull to the right or the left while you are driving or when you step on the brake pedal. If it does, you’ve got suspension or brake problems that need to be addressed.
Sinking Pedal
Power brake pedals stop at about 1 1/2 inches from the floorboard. Manual brake pedals stop at about 2 to 3 inches from the floorboard. If your brake pedal sinks or feels squishy, you may have a problem with your master cylinder, air in the brake lines, or another brake system problem that needs attention.
Euro Autoworks is a full-service European auto repair shop in Woodbury, MN, and we can handle all of your automotive service needs including your brakes. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.