Never Ignore the Warnings for Brake Maintenance

Never Ignore the Warnings for Brake Maintenance

October 25, 2019

Brake maintenance in Everett, WA is a crucial aspect of vehicle safety. If these components aren’t operating properly, your vehicle isn’t safe to drive. It’s that simple.

To avoid disastrous situations, look for signs that your brakes need maintenance. When you notice these red flags, don’t ignore them. Take your vehicle in for brake maintenance in Everett, WA right away. Following are the top signs to watch for as you operate your vehicle:

  • Dashboard indicator: If the brake light comes on, you may be due for a tune-up, or the brakes may need more extensive repairs. Either way, a call to your mechanic is warranted. This professional will use appropriate diagnostic tools to determine the reason for the light and then complete the necessary maintenance.
  • Noises: If you hear squealing, squeaking or grinding when you apply the brakes, this means the brake pads have worn out. These must be replaced immediately to avoid damage to the rotors as well as unsafe driving conditions.
  • Shaking: If you feel vibrations in the steering wheel when you hit the brakes, this might mean your rotor is uneven. These components should be completely smooth and even in order to operate properly. If they become uneven, you’ll experience shaking when you brake, and you should bring your car to a mechanic for brake maintenance in Everett, WA.
  • Leaks: When you brake, if the motion feels soft, the brakes may be leaking. The brakes aren’t receiving the fluid they need to generate power. A soft brake pedal is a sure sign that your car should be inspected for leaking brake fluid.
  • Floor braking: If your brake pedal makes it all the way to the floorboard of your car when you try to stop your vehicle, you need brake service. Pedals should stop about an inch from the floor, so if yours touches the floor, you should take your vehicle in for immediate brake repairs.
  • Swerving: If brakes are unbalanced or worn, this can cause your vehicle to pull to one side when you brake. You may have an issue with the brake hose or the caliper.
  • Odor: If you smell a chemical odor when you brake, this might mean your brakes are overheating. If you experience this, pull over as soon as possible and let your brakes cool. Then, take your vehicle to a mechanic right away for brake maintenance in Everett, WA.
  • Bouncing: If you brake sharply and your vehicle bounces or rocks up and down, you might have a problem with your brakes. However, it’s more likely that your vehicle needs new shock absorbers. Consult with a mechanic to determine the root cause and complete the appropriate repairs.

We know brakes

Whether it’s time for a seasonal inspection or you have noticed a red flag that your brakes need attention, contact the team at Auto Truck Service Inc. Locally owned and family operated, our customer service is unparalleled. We’ve been the area’s go-to source for top brake maintenance since 1978. Stop in today or give us a call!

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