Your brakes play an important part in the system that stops your vehicle. Without brakes, you aren't stopping your vehicle, which is not only dangerous to you in your own vehicle, but also a danger to everyone on the road around you as well. Your brakes should be inspected often and changed whenever necessary. There are signs to keep an eye and ear out for that will tell you that your brakes should be inspected, although they should still be inspected regularly by your mechanic. Read on for some signs to watch out for that may indicate your brakes should be repaired.
1. You Smell Burning Coming From Your Brakes
If, when you exit your vehicle after driving, you can smell a burning odor, it could be your brakes. This may indicate that your brake pads are so worn out that the burning odor you smell is actually the metal rubbing against other metal. You more than likely do not have much left in the way of brake pads or even rotors, and you need to have your brakes inspected and replaced immediately.
2. Your Brakes Squeal Or Grind
If you stop your vehicle and you can hear a squealing noise or a grinding sound, or you can feel the grinding in the brake pedal when you attempt to stop, it may be worn out brake pads and rotors, and both will need to be replaced on your vehicle. Squealing noises are usually the primary indicator, but if you hear grinding as well, it's more than likely an issue with your rotors. Worn-out rotors along with brake pads can add up and be costly to repair at the same time, but they are necessary for your vehicle to stop. It's best to have your brake pads replaced when you hear the squealing noise—don't wait for the grinding noise to follow.
3. You Are Having Issues Stopping
If you notice that there are changes in how your vehicle stops, it could be an issue with your brakes, and they need to be inspected and replaced. Your brakes are probably beginning to wear down and it's taking much longer to stop your vehicle, which means more force in the pedal. This could lead to accidents if you do not have them repaired.
If you notice any of these signs, you need to take your vehicle to a brake repair shop to have your brakes inspected and replaced if needed. Don't continue to drive your vehicle, as you may become unsafe on the road which puts others in danger. Have your brakes inspected and replaced if necessary.
Contact a local brake repair service to learn more.
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