Disc Brake Damage Signs You Must Not Ignore

by Ankita Sehgal Freelance Blogger, Lives in New Delhi

Disk brakes are the parts of a vehicle that help vehicle become stationary by slowing the rotation of a shaft, usually a vehicle axle. This is done using calipers (the assembly which houses the brake pads and pistons) that squeeze a pair of pads against a disc or a rotor in order to create friction. Waste heat is produced because of the energy of motion, which has to be dispersed. The most commonly used form of brake for motor vehicles is the hydraulically actuated disc brake, although the basic principles of the disk brake can be applied to almost any rotating shaft.

A number of problems may arise due to wear and tear that must be addressed or repaired quickly to avoid further damage. The following signs may indicate that your disc brakes aren’t functioning properly:

· Squealing

You may have experienced a high-pitched squeal-like noise on applying the brakes. While these brake squeals are produced due to vibration of the components of the brake, especially the pads and discs, you must observe whether the squeal is negatively affecting the performance of the brake. If it does cause an issue, you may have to show your car to a professional. Ensure that your components are replaced by good quality parts from the best disc brake pad manufacturers, as some pads are likely to squeal more according to their types and usage. The problem is usually worsened due to cold weather and morning dew. Dust or other contaminants may also be responsible for the same. During repair, chamfer pads may be added to contact points such as between the caliper pistons and pads. These points must also be coated with lubricants that are high-temperature and high solid in nature.

· Judder or shimmy

When the driver feels minor to severe vibrations, transferred through the chassis, while applying brakes, it is called a judder. Judders are typified into hot or thermal judders and cold judders. Hot judders are caused due to longer, more moderate braking from high speed, where the vehicle does not stop completely, because of which severe vibrations are felt by the driver. Cold judders are caused by uneven disc wear patterns, or disc thickness variation in the form of wavy/rough disc surface, misalignment of an axis, elastic deflection etc. caused by extensive vehicle road usage.

· Brake Dust

The friction generated in the process may wear the disc or pad to such an extent that brake dust may be deposited on wheels, calipers or other components. This can severely damage the finish of wheels if not cleaned.

To buy new components, look for the best car and motorcycle brake shoes suppliers to ensure that no part of the brake causes any sort of problem in the future.