Brakes deserve special credit for handling accidents. Brake systems are the epitome of risk management as they help prevent major mishaps, when on the move. Saving not only on hospital expenses but also on car repair expenses. Emergency brakes are known to mitigate at least 63% of serious accidents and fatalities.
How Brakes Work?
Brake systems are designed to stop motor movement. Upon pushing the brakes, hydraulic pressure creates friction in the rotor drum. Thus, resulting in slowed rotation of the drum or a complete stop. The brake system comprises components like callipers, rotors, brake fluid and more.
However, the mechanism causes an abundance of heat to generate. Especially in situations like long halts and repetitive halts. Too much heat causes disruptions in the brake system. This results in inefficient braking, brake lockup, brake fading and other brake system problems.
Brake Failure Issues & Resolutions
Before you fix, you learn. In this section, we’ve put together a list of brake problems and how to resolve them. Locating the symptoms will help you get to the root of the issue faster. Thus, putting a smaller dent in your pocket when going for car brake repair and maintenance.
1.Brake Warning Lights Start Beeping
There can be two reasons why the brake warning lights are ticking. One, the brake system is lacking brake fluid and two, the anti-lock braking system.
The anti-lock braking system (ABS) gives you more grip over the car. Also, there remains a chance of skidding when one pushes heavy brakes. It is the anti-lock braking system’s responsibility to prevent skidding. Thus, reducing the pressure on the wheels.
Resolution
- There’s no way you can fix the blinking dashboard light. Visit your trusted professionals for car brake service.
2. Burning Smell from the Brakes
You may notice a burning smell when your car’s brakes start dragging or getting hung up. This smell is a result of the extra heat generated because of the hanging brakes. Hung brakes are often the result of corroded rotors, seized callipers and broken brake lines.
Resolution:
- Replace with new callipers.
- For corroded rotors or drums, use a brake cleaner to wipe away the rust.
- If it doesn’t help, soak a cloth in vinegar. Use the wet cloth to remove any remaining rust patches.
- If it doesn’t help, it’s time to replace the rotor.
3. Weary Brake Lines
Brake lines act as the pipeline for the hydraulic pressure to flow and exert friction on the drum. Thus, brake fluid leaks can damage brake lines. However, damaged brake lines aren’t very daunting.
Resolution:
- Inform your trusted mechanics about the situation.
- Ask the mechanics to repair the brake line by chopping off the damaged section.
- However, if the entire line is damaged, it’s time for a replacement.
4. Spongy Brake Pedal
Brake pedals are firm and resistant. Thus, requiring physical exertion. However, if your brake pedals aren’t as resistant anymore, it’s sad news. If pushing it makes it sink like plasticine, there’s something wrong with your brake system. It could be because of worn callipers or a damaged master cylinder.
Resolution:
- Check for brake fluid leakages.
- Call for car brake services; get your brakes flushed.
- If these don’t help, automotive professionals will diagnose the original issue and fix it.
5. Brakes Take Too Long To Stop
One fine night, you find out that it is taking added pressure and time to make your brakes work. Most neglect it until the brakes give up completely. This phenomenon could be because of an array of causes. Ranging from old brake pads to low brake fluid.
Resolution:
- Lubricate the brake system and refill the brake fluid.
- Replace the brake pads if they have gotten old.
- Check the drum for any sign of damage. If you notice an anomaly, contact the mechanics immediately.
Read More:
Brake Repair Center for Car in Glynde | Mastering Brake Repairs
6. Brake Grinding Noise
Have you heard your brakes grinding when you’re on the move? Don’t neglect it. It happens when the metal planks of the brake come in direct contact with the metallic rotors. Another reason that could cause the brakes to grind is something obstructive stuck in the calliper.
Resolution:
- Replace your brake pads if they are not in working condition.
- Clean the callipers to remove any obstructive material.
- Check for dirt between the brake pads and the rotor.
- Use a brake cleaner to wipe away all dirt.
- However, if the problem persists, it’s time to get in touch with a car brakes service centre.
7. Seized Brake Calliper
The main reason behind brake seizures is corrosion and inactivity. Brake discs can form rust. Therefore, leading to the brake pads and disc sticking to each other. In the same way, callipers too get stuck.
Resolution:
- Apply grease on the brake pads to smoothen the edges.
- Lubricate the brake system.
- Get in touch with professionals if there’s a need for calliper replacement.
8. Brake Fluid Leak
The brake fluid helps keep the system lubricated, which in turn acts as a shield against the heat. However, over time, certain parts become worn, resulting in questionable seals. Cracks and fissures in the master cylinder, hose, callipers, etc. can lead to brake fluid leaks.
Resolution:
- If you’re on the move, stop driving.
- Get in touch with professionals immediately.
9. Vehicle Pulls to One Side When Braking
When your car keeps aligning with one side of the road every time you hit the brakes, there’s something wrong. Be it doubtful wheel balancing, irregular tire pressure or old suspension parts. Whatever be the cause, this event could be fatal and cause serious accidents.
Resolution:
- If there’s something wrong with the suspension or steering components, replace those parts.
- Check the tire pressure and get your tires balanced.
- Do a brake test to look for other anomalies.
- If found, the professionals will get to the root of the issue and fix it.
- However, keeping your brakes under regular maintenance will help keep such problems at bay.
10. Squeaky Brake Pedal
If you can hear repeated squeaks when you push the brakes in your car, it’s a sign. The most common cause behind squeaky brake pedals is worn-out brake pads. If it is neglected for too long, it may lead to contact with the rotor, resulting in grinding brakes.
Resolution:
- Ask the mechanics to perform a brake test when you take your car to the brake repair and maintenance facility.
- Doing so will let you know if the brakes are worn.
If the brake pads or the metal pieces are worn, replace them immediately.
The Conclusion
It is not every day that we pay heed to petty components like brakes and callipers. But when they go bad, we realise the role each part plays in the car’s performance and efficiency. Above that, there are also grave problems that require immediate attention like when a car keeps pulling to one side when braking.
So, instead of waiting till there’s damage, make brake repair and maintenance a bi-yearly ritual. Save money and time!
