You can prevent your brake system from getting too old with regular preventative maintenance. A general rule of thumb is that the brake system should be inspected every 12,000 miles. This usually equates to once a year in terms of time. If the brake system gets too old and has not been maintained, you will start to have one or more of the following problems.
Burning Odors/Overheating
The brake system will release burning odors when it is overheating. Specifically, glazed (smooth) brake pads will smell like burning carpets. If the brake fluid starts to boil in the system, you will smell burning chemicals coming from the brakes.
Changes in the Brake Pedal
You can also experience changes in how the brake pedal feels if it is overheating or there is air in the brake lines. The brake pedal will feel soft and squishy underneath your foot. In addition, a faulty master cylinder may sink it to the floor.
Illuminated Warning Light
There are systems in the brake system that send error codes to your vehicle’s main computer chip. If the sensors detect a problem, such as low brake fluid, they will alert the main computer chip and it will turn on the ABS or Brake light.
Leaking Brown/Red Fluid
One thing that will reduce the level of brake fluid in the system is a leak. Brake fluid can leak out of the master cylinder or the brake hoses. This automotive fluid is brown or red depending on the brand in your automobile.
Shaking/Wobbling/Vibration
Your brakes may also start to make your vehicle shake when you apply them. This is a sign that the brake pads have worn out and the rotor surfaces are warped. It can also be an indication of a problem with the calipers.
Squealing/Grinding Brakes
Squealing brakes can be a sign that the brakes are overheating. Squealing is also a sign that the brake pads need to be replaced. If you ignore the squealing sound, there may come a point when you will hear grinding because you have no brake pads left.
Swerving to the Side
Finally, your automobile may swerve or drift to the side if one of the calipers is stuck. Generally, the calipers need to be changed every 75,000 miles. You may end up with a stuck caliper if the calipers are too old.
Call us today to set up a service appointment for your vehicle’s brake system if it has been more than 12,000 miles since you have had the system inspected.