Brake repair is one of the most common and recurring issues that car owners face. While the average brakes can last for at least 20,000 miles, there are times when you might have to get your brakes repaired sooner. If you are unsure if your car needs to be taken to your local Ford dealer for some new brakes, here are four signs that can help you decide.
4 Signs You Need a Brake Repair at Your Ford Dealer
1. Taking Longer to Stop
Your car should stop as soon as you hit the brakes. If it is taking longer than normal for your car to slow down or stop, it might be one of the early warning signs that the brakes need to be changed.
Delayed stopping happens when the brakes become worn and lose the ability to grip the rotors. It is important to not ignore this early warning sign. A car failing to stop on command is dangerous for you, your family, and other motorists and can potentially lead to a vehicle accident.
2. Squeaking and Squealing
A car making strange or unusual sounds always means that something is wrong. If squealing or squeaking is heard anytime you press down on the brakes, it can mean that it is time for a repair. A squeak or squeal is a sign that the brake pads are so worn that the break indicators are rubbing against the rotors.
This noise is not only annoying, but it can cause serious damage to the brake system. It is important to get the brakes fixed the first time you notice these sounds to avoid further damage and costly repairs.
3. Grinding Brakes
Grinding brakes is a sign that there is a severe problem with the brake system. If you hear a grinding noise coming from your brakes, it means that the brake pads are extremely worn, and there is metal-on-metal contact. If the brake pads have reached this point, they need to be changed at once. Not replacing them can cause further damage to other parts of the brake system and can lead to brake failure.
4. Shaking When Stopping
If your steering wheel begins to shake when you press down on the brake, it might be a sign that there is trouble with the brake pads, the rotors, or both. Worn brake pads or warped rotors can cause the steering wheel or the entire vehicle to shake. Taking your vehicle to a certified mechanic can help pinpoint the source of the problem and promptly fix it.
Issues with your brake system should not be ignored. If your car is showing any of these signs, call Matthews Ford today.