Don’t forget about the brake system when taking care of your European automobile. We here at RB Auto Service would be happy to inspect your brakes on a regular basis – we recommend every 12,000 miles – to ensure nothing is wrong. If something is wrong, we can fix it right away so it doesn’t become a huge problem. Here are signs of brake problems in your European automobile.
Brake Warning Light
Your dashboard has an ABS and Brake light on it. It might also have a Low Pad indicator light on it. The only time these lights should come on is when you start your automobile and set the parking brake. If they come on at any other time, your vehicle has brake problems.
Burning Smells When Braking
You should never smell anything hot when you apply the brakes. If you do, your brakes are overheating. Overheating brakes will also squeal every time you use them. Stop driving your European automobile if you suspect your brakes are overheating because they will fail eventually.
Leaking Brake Fluid
Red or brown spots on the garage floor behind your wheels could indicate that you have leaking brake fluid coming from the lines or master cylinder. You cannot stop your automobile effectively with low brake fluid, so it’s important to get the leak fixed immediately.
Soft/Sinking Brake Pedal
Changes in how your brake pedal feels underneath your foot are also signs of problems with the brakes. Your brake pedal should never feel soft, spongy, nor should it sink to the floorboard. Rather, it should give you the same resistance every time.
Strange Noises
Strange sounds can also indicate brake problems in your European automobile. Aside from the squealing sound discussed above, your brakes shouldn’t squeak, squeal, or grind. They also shouldn’t sound as if they are scraping when you stop your automobile. If they do, you likely have a problem with the brake pads. Chances are, they need to be replaced because the surface is too low.
Strange Sensations
Finally, your vehicle shouldn’t vibrate, wobble, or pull to the side when you apply the brakes. If they do, it’s possible that you have a problem with the calipers or rotors. A stuck caliper can make your vehicle pull and vibrate. You may also end up with a small rock stuck in the caliper. Warped rotors can also cause your vehicle to wobble when you stop it.
RB Auto Service in Pinellas Park, FL, would be happy to inspect your brake system if you are having any of the problems listed above. Give us a call today.