5 Ways To Tell If Your Brakes Need To Be Replaced

Automotive Blog

Having a truck requires maintenance, but it may be hard to determine when that is needed. Brakes are one part of the truck that is vital to haveig them work well, so here are five ways to tell if you need to have them replaced.

High-Pitch Screech

One of the first warnings you will have that your brakes need to be replaced is a high-pitch screech. This sound comes from the wear indicator, which is actually just a metal shim that is placed in the gap as a spacer. As soon as you start hearing this squeal frequently, you will want to take the vehicle to a mechanic or replace the brakes yourself.

Grinding

If you are hearing a grinding noise, then you need to get your brakes replaced immediately. The noise is coming from the brake disc grinding against the caliper. It is also possible that you will need to have your rotors replaced or turned because they have worn unevenly.

Vehicle Pulls

If your vehicle is pulling to the left or right when you are braking, you may need to have your brakes replaced. While pulling could just mean that your alignment is off or your tires are wearing disproportionately, it also could mean your brake pads are wearing unevenly. Anytime your vehicle is pulling, it is a good idea to have a mechanic make sure that everything is adjusted properly, and the brakes are working accurately. In some cases, the mechanic will need to flush the brake line and refill it with fresh brake fluid.

Shaking

If it feels like your vehicle is shaking slightly, especially from the brake pedal, your rotors could be warped. If your vehicle is equipped with anti-lock brakes, then you will want to turn them off to see if the shaking stops. This vibration is caused by the rotors and brakes not keeping the traction consistent to stop the vehicle. Many times, rotors wear unevenly because of improper braking, but it can also happen when the brake pads are not replaced regularly.

It also helps to keep a visual on your brakes. You should be able to see your brake pads between the spaces on your tire, and they should be at least a quarter inch thick. Anytime they are less than that, they need to be replaced. Keeping your brakes maintained properly not only prevents accidents, but it also prevents repairs that will be more costly later. To find out more, speak with a company like Godfrey Brake Service & Supply.

25 June 2015