January 2023

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Introducing Same day, No Credit Check Financing
NEW payment option at our Detail Location

Introducing a NEW payment option at our West Coast Detail & Accessory location. Get same day, no credit check financing for our services!

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Do You Need a Brake Inspection?
6 Warning Signs to Look For

But what are the main symptoms of potential brake issues? If you see any of these warning signs, it’s essential to book a brake inspection as soon as possible to ensure your continued safety.

1) New and Unusual Sounds

If you start to hear a squealing, hissing, or grinding sound when you press down on the brake pedal, it could simply be caused by dirt or debris caught within the wheel. Usually, the problem will solve itself as the obstruction works free. But if the strange noises persist, it’s likely a sign of a more serious issue that needs attention.

2) Drifting or Swerving

Brake pads and other components wear out over time, but the brakes on each wheel don’t necessarily degrade at the same rate. If one or more brakes are losing their strength compared to the others, you’ll start to see sideways movement when you brake, as one side of the vehicle is slowed more efficiently than the other.

A minor sideways drift might be barely noticeable, and it could also be caused by problems with the tires, steering, or suspension. However, if mild drifting starts to turn into a more obvious swerve, you should book a brake inspection immediately.

3) Vibrations or Juddering

Worn or damaged brakes can also cause vibrations or juddering when they’re applied, as they stop making steady contact with the wheels. The most common culprit is the brake rotors, which could be badly worn, rusted, or even damaged by debris thrown up from the pavement.

4) Inconsistent Response

If the brakes respond a little differently each time you hit the pedal, sometimes providing strong braking and sometimes reacting more sluggishly, a possible cause is badly worn pads or contaminated brake fluid. Either way, as soon as safe handling is affected in this way, it’s essential to have the cause identified and fixed.

5) Drips Under the Vehicle

There are many reasons why spots or drips can show up on your garage floor. With luck, the issue will be minor, caused by a leaky windshield washer or an overworked climate-control system. However, if the drips seem to be coming from around the wheels, brake fluid could be escaping from the reservoirs.

This warning sign should never be ignored. As the fluid slowly drains away, braking response will become less and less reliable, and could eventually lead to a sudden failure with all the danger that involves.

6) Burning Smells

If a burning smell comes through the air vents shortly after you apply the brakes, it’s a probable sign that something in the braking system is overheating. Pull over to the roadside as soon as it’s safe to do so, and inspect each wheel for any signs of smoke or strong odours.

It could be that the brake oil needs a change, which would be a quick and easy job. However, if a brake caliper is damaged and keeping the pad in contact with the wheel, your vehicle is likely now unsafe to drive, and an immediate repair is needed.

Seeing one or more of these signs doesn’t necessarily mean a full brakes failure is imminent, but it’s important to have the problem investigated before it deteriorates into a genuine danger. Book a service appointment by clicking on the button below, and our technicians can put your mind at rest that your brakes are protecting you as they should.

Published by DrivingSuccess.ca® on behalf of West Coast Kia
Includes copyrighted material of DrivingSuccess.ca® and its suppliers.