Braking should always feel smooth and consistent while driving, so if any unusual behavior arises, there is likely an issue with the brakes. Fortunately, your Chevy dealer can inspect and perform a brake repair, ensuring your vehicle is safe to drive. Here are four signs that your brakes need some attention.
Spongy Brake Pedal
A spongy brake pedal could indicate air in the brake line, a worn-out master cylinder, or several other issues that require professional diagnosis and servicing. For instance, too much moisture in the master cylinder might cause hydraulic fluid to foam and aerate, increasing pedal travel distance before any actual power is applied to the brakes.
It's also possible that a lack of brake fluid will cause an unresponsive pedal, forcing drivers to press harder on the brakes without getting results. If you suspect you need brake servicing, take your vehicle to a certified professional as soon as possible.
Grinding and Screeching Sounds
Grinding sound is often caused by thinning or warping brake rotors due to intense heat from excessive braking or driving in extreme conditions, while worn brake pads often cause screeching sounds.
Unfortunately, both these sounds can be difficult to ignore when driving as they create an unbearable high-pitched noise! When either of these noises is present, it is wise to take your vehicle to a reputable mechanic who can inspect and replace any necessary parts, such as brake pads or drums.
Burning Smell When Braking
The burning smell occurs when brakes become exceptionally hot due to friction between brake pads and rotors. It may be caused by a lack of proper maintenance or damaged components like improperly functioning calipers or worn-out brake pads, which can increase heat when braking and cause more damage down the line. Without proper servicing, burning brakes can deteriorate quickly and cause further damage that may lead to slipping or spinning out while braking.
Brake Light Comes On
Brake lights serve as an essential warning system, as each time you press on the brakes, a red light illuminates your dashboard to indicate that the car is slowing down. If you're driving and notice that this brake light isn't turning off when it is released, it could indicate a severe issue requiring immediate repair.
There could be a variety of causes for the brake light to stay on longer than it should, ranging from faulty sensors to calipers or air bubbles in the brake line. Regardless, it's advisable to have it checked out by a qualified mechanic.
If it's been a while since your last brake servicing, we encourage you to contact us at Earnhardt Chevrolet. Our team of experts can help you keep your car running smoothly and safely on the roads.
