1. Your brake light came on.
If the brake light pops up on your dashboard panel, give us a call immediately to schedule an inspection. A number of things might be wrong. For example, it could mean the brake fluid in your vehicle is low, a quick fix. It could also mean a component like the brake sensor is malfunctioning. It's tough to tell exactly what caused it to come on, though, if you don't have it checked out.
2. Your brakes act “weird” every time you step on them.
Imagine this: you're driving down the road when you notice the light turn red in front of you. You hit the brakes, but the pedal sinks to the floor the moment you touch it. That's a serious — and dangerous — problem.
You may also notice other issues when braking. Maybe the pedal is incredibly hard to press or feels stiff. Maybe your car is pulling to one side every time you hit the brakes, or the brakes “grab” even if you apply the lightest pressure. Your vehicle could also be vibrating when you try to stop or you hear a grinding sound.
If you notice any behavior that is out of the ordinary when you apply the brakes, get them looked at. Your safety, and that of others on the road, is at stake.
3. You care about your car.
You rely on your car for a variety of reasons, from commuting to work to transporting your family and friends. Having those brakes checked on a regular basis is a good way to show how much you care about your car.
Generally, you want to have your brakes inspected every time you have an oil change. That can help to identify any potential problems before they become bigger ones. It's not only a cost saving measure, but it's also a safety measure. The longer you have a brake problem, the more dangerous it becomes. It could even become an issue for other parts of your engine if you let it go, and that often leads to premature wear and tear.
4. You care about other drivers.
You're not the only driver on the road, and having your brakes inspected allows you to do your part to maintain safety. Many auto experts cite the brakes as a vehicle's most critical safety system, and making certain they are functioning properly is the least you can do to keep other people on the road safe. The last thing you want is to be the cause of an accident because your vehicle couldn't brake fast enough.
5. Winter really isn't that far away.
Wondering what a seasonal change has to do with brakes? Quite a bit. North Carolina doesn’t turn into a winter wonderland, per se, but we see an average of up to five inches of snow every year. During cold snaps, ice can form on the roadways. If your car’s not winter-ready, this can spell trouble. A slick road presents a challenge and a hazard for brakes that are badly worn or in need of servicing.
During a brake inspection, your mechanic will check the entire system, including: fluid, brake lines and hoses, assemblies (disc or drum), and the brake pedal. Is the brake pedal height (the distance between the pedal to the floor when at rest) within manufacturer’s specs? Is there excessive free play (how far you must push the pedal before the brakes engage)? Do hoses show signs of moisture? Are there cracks visible in the lines?
A thorough inspection will root out problems with the brake system so you can drive away with confidence.
Ready to schedule an inspection? Contact us to get one on the calendar today. Don't wait!