When you first learn to drive there’s a certain thrill when you put your foot down on the accelerator for the first time. Knowing that you are responsible for making that vehicle move. For starting a journey in it. There’s something you learn pretty soon after that though. Making the vehicle stop again. Yet we don’t seem to talk about using the brakes quite as much as I think we ought to.
Yes, driving is all about going forwards. Getting from A to B. But at the same time you want to be able to stop safely when you get to where you are going, and you also need to be able to drive safely during your journey. This is where you need to think about looking after your car brakes as well as everything that makes your care move.
There are so many things that could go wrong with the various components that make up your car brakes. It could be the brake pads, shoes or discs that cause problems. Or maybe the callipers, or the hoses that connect various parts of the braking system.
Not everyone knows what signs to look out for that might be indicative of a problem with your car brakes. If you drive regularly, or long distances there are a few things that you can look out for.
Squeaking
Car drives get used to a variety of noises when driving, but if you hear a squeaking noise when you apply the brakes it could simply be that something needs oiling, or it might be that your brake pads have indicators that make a noise to let the driver know that attention is needed.
Grinding
Equally a grinding noise is likely to not be good news. The brake pad could have worn down to the metal calliper and if left like this the brake disc could also get damaged.
Pulling to one side
If your car pulls to one side when you brake there may be a mechanical problem like a stuck calliper.
Pulsating brake pedal
If you can feel the brake pedal pulsating under your foot when you apply the brakes it is probably a sign of the brake disc being distorted in some way.
Sponginess
If the brake pedal seems spongey then it suggests that air may have entered the braking system somewhere making the hydraulics not as effective as they should be.
Soft unresponsive brake pedal
Probably the most serious brake problem you can have and it requires immediate attention. If the pedal can be pushed all the way to the floor it normally means that the brake fluid needs replacing, but it could also be a symptom of a more major problem.
Sometimes there are no outward signs and they simply need a proper inspection to see if there is a problem or not.
Whether you have seen symptoms of brake problems or not, safety surely comes first, get your car brakes in London from Iverson Tyres. It’s so important to remember that the brakes are there for your safety, and that of other road users too.
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