Having a properly functioning car is absolutely critical in this day and age. Getting yourself from place to place on time without problems allows for a flexible lifestyle with various activities. If your car is having problems, especially brake problems, you won’t be getting anywhere until you fix them. Here are some of the ways in which you can diagnose your brake problems and take the right steps to fixing them.
As mentioned above, the first step of properly fixing your brakes is determining what exactly your problem is. Turn off your car engine and slowly let off the brakes. If they feel like they are mushy or soft, you might be low on brake fluid.
If you’re driving at low speeds, try braking if it is safe. If you hear a squealing noise, your brake pads might be the issue. Consider replacing or even just cleaning them. In a safe area such as an empty parking lot, try sharply pressing on the brakes. If your car fails to brake properly, you may have worn pads, or need to decontaminate you brake fluid and pads.
If you’re finding that when you break your car is being pulled to one side, you might need to adjust the brake’s clearance. Not only may the problem just be the clearance, but also you could potentially have to replace the pads and rotors, or have insufficient hydraulic pressure in part of the brake system.
While driving slowly, pay attention to if the brakes drag behind or bind, because this might be a situation in which grease may be present on the pads or rotors. If your brakes are making a grinding noise, be sure to check the lining and surface of the brake, as there may be some potentially severe damage to both parts. Look for a seized or even partially seized brake, because this can cause premature and uneven brake wear, significantly shortening the life of your brakes.
If the pedal feels firm but lacks the proper amount of stopping power to slam on the brakes, check the operation of the brake booster and also the check valve. If there are any parts that are damaged or destroyed, be sure to replace them. Look for any hydraulic parts that are contaminated or damaged, and clean and potentially replace them as well.
If you find that your brakes are producing a burning odor, check for rust in places such as the brake caliper or the caliper piston. If there is no problem with rusting, be sure to take a look at the parking brake. If damaged in any way, consider investing in a repair job.
When looking for a repair job for your brakes, nobody does it better than Grisham’s Transmission. Located in Nashville, Grisham’s has experts with years of experience ready to fix not only brake problems, but also axels, clutches, auto, standard, flywheels, starters, and much more. Call today at 615-226-2789.