Your vehicle's braking system is among the most important safety features when it comes to the safety of you and your passengers. Brakes are something that drivers often overlook. It's not until they experience a problem that the average driver invests time and attention in their braking system.
If you want to avoid experiencing a brake failure, be watching for these three signs that you need to replace your brakes in the near future.
1. You hear squealing when applying the brake pedal
One of the first signs that your brakes are beginning to wear out is a squealing sound when you press on the brake pedal.
Modern brakes are designed to create this noise when brake pads get too worn. The noise reminds drivers that they need to invest in brake repairs quickly before permanent damage occurs. Never ignore squealing brakes if you want your vehicle to run safely.
2. Your brake pedal is soft
Another indication that your braking system is in need of repair is a soft brake pedal. A soft brake pedal occurs when you must press the pedal in further than usual in order to feel a response from your vehicle.
Soft brake pedals can indicate worn brake pads, a loss of brake fluid, or air in the brake lines. These problems are serious and should be addressed by an experienced mechanic as quickly as possible to avoid total brake failure.
3. You feel vibrations when applying the brakes
A car with a functional braking system should run smoothly. Any vibrations that you feel when pressing the brake pedal are signs that your braking system is beginning to fail. Most vibrations are caused by improper contact between the brake pads and the rotors.
This improper contact can be the result of brake pad wear or rotor warping due to the extreme heat created during the braking process. Vibration when braking is an indication that you need to get your vehicle to an experienced mechanic quickly to replace either the brake pads or the rotors on your vehicle.
When you know the warning signs of brake failure, you are better able to monitor the performance of your car's braking system. Never overlook a potential sign of brake problems if you want to ensure your vehicle is as safe as possible. Routine maintenance can be used to help prevent serious brake problems from sidelining your vehicle in the future. For more information about brake services, contact a mechanic near you or visit a site such as http://www.autoservicefairfax.com.