Could you Have Brake Problems?

Tuesday 23 August 2022

Car brakes are essential to your safety out on the open road. You must be able to stop your car quickly and when needed without any issues. The difference of a few metres can be vital in certain situations while driving your vehicle.

Part of your responsibility as a car owner is to make sure you have your brakes serviced regularly and certain parts adjusted or replaced if necessary. When wondering could you have brake problems, here’s all the information you’ll need to know to keep you safe.

What are Brakes & How Do They Work?

Brakes are a mechanical device and part of your car that when pressure is applied to the wheel assembly of your vehicle, creates friction and, in turn, hinders motion. Since they create friction which makes heat they are especially prone to wear and tear. Parts that are constantly subjected to high heat over an extended time will deteriorate considerably.

The majority of car brakes out there fall into two categories which are disc brakes or drums. In either case, the brake pads or shoes are forced against a drum or disc, which is attached to the wheel assembly. As you apply pressure to them, friction is created and with this force, the vehicle’s movement slows.

Without a doubt, car brakes are the most vital function of your vehicle. They work to and will keep you and other passengers safe when they are functioning properly. When wondering if could you have brake problems, the answer is yes. There are many common problems in the auto world when it comes to brakes not working right such as being shaky, squeaky, grinding, wobbly, bouncing, or pulling.

A lot of brake issues begin as small problems that are easy for a professional to fix. However, if you don’t deal with a minor issue right away then it may turn into a bigger and potentially more dangerous problem soon. This not only puts you at risk while on the road but other drivers and pedestrians as well.

A preventative measure you can take as a car owner when it comes to your car brakes is following through with car brake maintenance. Keep your car running safely and effectively with regular checks and servicing.

How to Spot Potential Brake Problems

As a driver and car owner, you may also be wondering how you spot potential brake problems. It’s important to have awareness of your vehicle for many reasons and to always be aware of unfamiliar noises and changes to how your car handles and drives. You could have a brake problem if the following issues arise:

• There is pulling to one side or the other as you brake. The car may veer to the left or right as you brake and this is a good indicator that there’s a brake issue.
• When you find you are applying more or less pressure to the brake pedal compared to normal.
• Your brakes may grab when you apply only a little pedal pressure.
• Your brakes may appear to stick.
• You may hear unfamiliar sounds or excessive squealing when you apply the brakes.
• When the brakes take effect do you notice that the pedal is too high or too low?
• As you apply the brakes, you may feel unusual vibrations.
• Seek a mechanic’s advice right away if your car has a brake light that lights up.

Generally speaking, you should take notice if anything seems out of the ordinary in the way your car feels, sounds, or drives when you apply your brakes. If so, get an expert to take a look at what’s going on immediately.

How Often Should Brakes be Serviced?

Regular brake maintenance is essential for keeping you and others safe out on the road. You don’t want to be caught off guard in an emergency and not have working brakes. Review your car’s manufacturer’s specified recommendation for service intervals to know when you should get your brakes serviced. Usually, it’s going to be every six months or a set number of kilometres. Stick to a schedule and always get the work done by a suitable and qualified mechanic. Save money and time and optimise safety by following through with getting your brakes checked out. You’ll also get peace of mind, which is priceless.

How We Can Help

All Coast Tyre Solutions is a family-owned and operated business that’s been serving customers for over 25 years. We will assist you in keeping your brakes in prime condition via our brake service offering that includes making repairs.

Contact us today and our qualified mechanical team can inspect your brakes to ensure you, your family, and other drivers remain safe on our Sunshine Coast roads.