How to Tell If Front Brakes Are Bad
Your front brakes are the primary way you stop your car, so it’s essential to understand how to tell if they are malfunctioning. Otherwise, you could end up in an unfortunate scenario where a sudden stop turns into a multiple car pileup.
Brakes can deteriorate over time, and you may begin hearing grinding or squealing noises when pressing on the brake pedal. This is an indication that it’s time to replace your pads.
Brake Pedal Feeling
If your brake pedal feels spongy or soft, it could be an indication that your front brakes need attention. A soft pedal could be caused by air in the brake lines, low fluid levels, or damaged caliper seals.
Today’s cars, trucks, SUVs and vans rely on many components that work together to stop the vehicle when you press on the brake pedal. These include multiple brake mechanisms as well as a vacuum or hydraulic booster that applies hundreds of pounds of pressure onto the brakes.
To determine if your front brakes need repair, feel the pedal for resistance when pressing it. If they feel hard to press, contact a Les Schwab mechanic for further evaluation and assistance.
Brake Pulling
Your car’s front brakes operate much like bicycle brakes: when you press down on the pedal, a cable pushes a piston inside a caliper. This piston then injects hydraulic fluid into the caliper which squeezes brake pads against rotors and brings your vehicle to a complete stop.
If your piston is malfunctioning, this could cause your car to pull to one side when applying the brakes. This occurs because the caliper isn’t pushing brake fluid into the caliper as effectively as it could, leading to uneven pressure across each side of the braking system.
If you suspect a problem with your front brakes, start by inspecting the hoses for cracks or damage. Gently bend each hose in your hands and look for any signs of cracks or deterioration on its outside material. If one hose appears cracked, it should be promptly replaced.
Brake Indicator
When your front brakes are malfunctioning, they can present a risk not only to yourself and your passengers but also other drivers on the road. Whether you’re stuck in stop-and-go traffic on the highway or slowing down at red lights, having good brakes is essential for safety.
Thankfully, many vehicles come equipped with an indicator to alert you when it’s time for brake pads replacement. These indicators are built-into most brake pads and emit a high-pitched screech when they are about to fail completely.
The indicator’s purpose is to alert you of the potential danger of a sudden and catastrophic failure of your brake system.
Your brake indicator may not be as obvious as other dashboard lights such as oil pressure warning or check engine light, but it is one of the most essential. When you see it, take immediate action and have an experienced technician check your brakes.
Brake Pads
When you apply the brakes, a complex network of parts comes into action to gradually slow and stop your vehicle. To keep these systems functioning optimally, regular replacement of these components is necessary for optimal efficiency.
One essential component of the braking system are your brake pads. They press against a rotor in each front wheel to provide friction that ultimately slows your car down.
Your brake pads wear over time, decreasing their ability to squeeze with enough force to stop your vehicle. They may also become thin, making it harder for them to squeeze together tightly.
If you hear high-pitched, squeaking noises coming from your brakes, this could be a warning sign that your pads are wearing out and should be replaced. Other built-in wear indicators include an attachment in the pad which screeches when exposed to wear and closes an electric circuit – lighting up a dashboard warning light.