7 Signs It’s Time to Have Your Brakes Checked

Proper maintenance is important to ensure your car is safe to drive. However, people live busy lives and it becomes all too easy to ignore maintenance until your car brakes in Newark, NJ, begin posing a serious threat to your safety. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should take your car to your mechanic right away.

 The Warning Lights Come On

 The most obvious sign that you need to check your car's brakes is if the brake light or the anti-lock braking system light comes on on the dashboard. This typically means you are running low on brake fluid. If the light remains on after you've had the fluid changed, it could indicate a larger problem such as a leak in the brake lines.

 You’re Hearing Strange Noises

 Hearing strange noises is usually the second indicator that something is wrong with your car's brakes. If you hear a squealing sound when you slow down, it typically means the brakes need to be adjusted or replaced. A grinding sound indicates that your brake pads have worn out and need to be replaced.

 The Car Pulls to One Side

 If your car begins to pull to the left or right when you apply pressure to the brakes, it could be doing so for one of several reasons. It might be that your car brakes in Newark, NJ, need to be readjusted. Alternatively, there might be a leak in your brake fluid line or they could simply be worn out and need to be replaced.

 The Brakes Feel Like They’re Pulsating

 Sometimes the rotors on your brakes can develop high spots. If this happens, you may feel a pulsing movement when you apply pressure. To remedy the problem, a mechanic will need to either smooth the rotor by shaving some of the metal off or to replace the entire rotor.

 Your Brake Lines Are Rusty

 Did you know your brake lines can become rusty? In fact, rust is one of the main causes of brake failure while driving due to the fluid spilling out through the rusted areas. Rusting occurs because the thin layer protecting the steel from debris under the car eventually wears away, exposing the steel to the elements. Small amounts of rust are normal but if it is flaking or bubbling heavily, the problem must be fixed.

 Your Brake Fluid Looks Milky

 If condensation manages to find its way into your brake fluid, the color will change and begin to look milky. If you do not change the fluid when this happens, it can damage the wheel cylinders and the master cylinder.

 The Pedal Hits the Floor

 Hopefully, you realize your brakes need to be fixed before this ever occurs but if your brake pedal pushes all the way to the floor with little to no slowing of speed, you must stop driving your car and have your brakes repaired immediately. Ignoring the problem puts yourself and others at serious risk of a traffic accident.

 When searching for a mechanic to fix your car brakes in Newark, NJ, always research first. Only hire someone who is certified, has excellent affiliations and comes highly recommended by previous customers.