Signs You Need New Brakes

Regardless of what people drive, most of them want their brake systems in tip-top shape at all times. After all, if the brakes are not working and their vehicles won’t slow down or stop correctly, that could put them smack dab in the middle of an accident. Of course, they’ll be responsible for property damages and injuries that they cause. Not to mention, individuals with bad brakes who get into collisions can get seriously hurt as well.

If you wish to avoid crashes, it is in your best interest to learn the signs that say you need work done. Then, after one or more of the issues present themselves, you can take your vehicle to a maintenance shop to get your brake system serviced. But, the question is, “Where should you go?” That’s a simple one to answer, though, Reed-Lallier Chevrolet in Fayetteville, NC, of course. The team has the training, experience, and tools necessary to ensure your ride stops on a dime every time.

It is now time to look at some symptoms that brakes present before going kaput, leaving you needing maintenance. Hence, if your interest is piqued, stick around and read on to learn more. 

1. Unusual Noises

If your brakes begin to fail, it shouldn’t come as any surprise if they start to make unusual noises. That is a tell-tale sign that brakes are going out and need maintenance. So, what types of sounds are we talking about? Well, squealing is one. Pads have indicators that rub against rotors as they wear down. When that happens, squealing/squeaking occurs. However, if your brakes make a grinding noise, that is another indicator of something being wrong.

2. Car Pulls to One Side

Does your car pull to the right or the left when you press the brake pedal? If that’s the case, maintenance will probably be required to stop your brakes from pulling. Of course, the problem could be a weak caliper, worn pads, or and warped rotor. Then again, perhaps it is something completely different. Whatever you do, don’t leave the issue to worsen, as that could cause you to wreck into another car, hit a pedestrian, or strike an object, like a concrete barrier, and nobody wants that.  

3. Burning Smells

Did you know that you can also use your nose to determine if maintenance is needed for your brakes? It’s true. Often, when an issue such as leaking fluid occurs, a burning smell will present itself. Worn pads can sometimes produce the same smell, though. So, if something smells off, be sure to get the brakes checked, as not doing so could result in disaster. 

4. Longer Time to Brake

Finally, the last item to discuss is the distance required to stop. Does your car feel like you have to start slowing down a lot sooner than you once did, or you might run into someone’s rear-end? That is another tell-tale sign of a braking problem, and you’ll want to get the vehicle looked at as soon as possible to ensure smacking the bumper of a car, truck, van, or SUV doesn’t become a reality. 

If your car shows one or more of these signs, don’t hesitate to schedule a service with Reed-Lallier in Fayetteville, NC. It’s better to address the matter sooner rather than later to keep more significant problems like collisions and injuries at bay. Plus, if you keep your brakes working correctly, your vehicle might not need auto bodywork.