Common Brake Failure Causes, Maintenance Tips
Brake failure doesn’t just occur. Hence, it is important for car owners to notice the signs before getting into a precarious situation.
The following are some of the signs that a car might be having brake failure, according to experts at Ace Mechanics in Australia.
Overheating Brake Pads:
Brake pads can overheat due to excessive use and become hard or brittle. This hardening decreases the ability of the pads to properly grip the wheel rotor disk, increasing the distance necessary to stop the car.
Damaged rotor disks: Damaged or “scored” rotor disks on the wheel can decrease the life of your brake pads, making stopping more difficult. Have your rotor disks smoothed or “turned” by a trained mechanic when your brake pads are replaced.
Leaking Hydraulic Fluid:
Oil or other hydraulic fluid can leak from your car’s engine or brake lines. If you find stopping has become difficult, have your brakes inspected to rule out any contamination from a leaking hydraulic line.
Driving Through Mud Or Water:
Driving through mud or water will naturally “lubricate” your brake pads and rotor disks. Gently tapping the brakes can help remove excess water and re-establish the proper friction between your car’s brake pads and rotor disks. As always, use caution when driving in wet conditions, especially when your car’s wheels are partially submerged in water.
Loss Of Hydraulic Brake Fluid Pressure:
Loss of hydraulic brake fluid pressure will decrease your ability to stop quickly. If you find your brakes don’t seem to work at all or are working only modestly, tap the brakes several times to help force fluid throughout the brake system. Though effective in helping stop your car, this technique should not be used unless absolutely necessary. Have a certified brake specialist check your brake system for any leaks and refill the reservoir with brake fluid.
Overloading Your Automobile:
Overloading any automobile will change its ability to stop and can potentially damage the braking system. Only load your car as suggested by the owner’s manual. So try taking out any unnecessary items and avoid taking on more weight than your car can safely handle. Also consider the weight of aftermarket products before installing them on your vehicle since they might be heavier than their original equipment counterparts. The lighter the vehicle, the easier it will be on your brakes, tyres, gas tank, and, ultimately, your wallet!
Listen And Watch For Warning Signs:
These may include unusual noises, strange brake response, and abnormal feeling when you press on the brakes. These may indicate a dangerous problem, so have your brakes checked out right away.
While driving, try coasting to slow down before applying brakes whenever possible. This helps to preserve your car’s brakes by putting less pressure on them.
Avoid braking when cars ahead of you brake unnecessarily. For example, they may be following too closely to the vehicle ahead of them when you have plenty of distance to coast. So slow down and keep a great distance behind them, not only to preserve your brakes, but also for safety purposes.
Invest in good, reliable brakes. They may cost a little bit extra, but they will make a difference in the long run in terms of efficiency, safety, and durability.
Don’t Be A Speed Demon:
The greatest enemy of brakes is high speed. The higher your speed, the more energy and brake material it takes for your vehicle’s braking system to stop the car. It is recommended that you travel within the speed limit advised by agencies saddle with the responsibilities.
