How to Diagnose a Brake Problem

Neglecting an improperly working brake system can be very dangerous. Brakes should always be in excellent working condition to ensure everyone's safety on the road. Make sure you periodically test your brakes functionality and pay attention to any feedback coming from your vehicle. If you experience any of the following conditions take your vehicle to a mechanic to be inspected as soon as possible.

Checking Brake Pads

One way to tell if your brake pads need replacing is by looking at the brakes. Look through the wheels at the brake pads and check how much of the pad is left. There should always be at least a ¼ inch of brake lining on the brake pad. If the brake pads have less than a ¼ inch, they should be inspected by a mechanic.

Listen While Braking

Another way to tell if the brake pads need replacing is to listen while braking. A high pitch squealing sound indicates that the brake pads are worn. This noise is created by metal piece in the brake pad called a shim. When the bad is worn, the shim is exposed and rubs against the rotor, creating the noise. If you hear metal on metal grinding noise during braking, this may indicate that your brake pads have been completely worn down and they are beginning to wear away at the brake rotor. This will require the brakes pads to be replaced as well as the brake rotors.

Vibrating Brake Pedal

If the brake pedal vibrates during braking, the brake rotors may be worn or warped. The vibration is created due to the brake pads not being able to make even contact with the brake rotor. The brake rotor may be able to be machined or turned but often they will need to be replaced.

Soft or Hard Brake Pedal

If the brake pedal feels soft or if the pedal is hard and gets higher when you pump it, you may need to bleed the brake system which will get the air bubbles out of the brake lines. Brakes that are less responsive than they should be or a brake pedal that seems to drop when pressed may indicate a leak in the brake system or that your master cylinder needs to be replaced.

Vehicle Pulling to One Side

After the car has been parked for some time, look for a small pool of liquid that resembles clean motor oil to determine if your vehicle has a leak. A vehicle that pulls to one side or the other during braking may indicate that the brake pads are wearing unevenly and the brakes need to be adjusted. This symptom may also mean that the brake fluid is contaminated and needs to be replaced. If you ever suspect any problem with any part of your brake system take your vehicle to mechanic right away. Fixing the problem and ensuring you have properly working brakes is money well spent.