When you start thinking about different ways to improve your car, there might be a few things you can do in order to ensure a safe, stable ride. For starters, you should think about starting to focus on learning basic at-home auto service techniques, such as changing your own oil or replacing your auto filter.
By learning about car care, you can empower yourself with knowledge and learn more about how to manage different aspects of the trade, which can be incredibly helpful. Check out this website for awesome tips and tricks that talk about auto service that can pave the way for a brighter tomorrow.
Are you unsure if your brake pads need replacement, but don't know what to look for? Here are the warning signs that your brake pads have seen better days and need to go.
You Can Hear The Brakes
One thing to be aware of when it comes to your breaks is that you should never hear them when they are working. That's why it's a big red flag if the brakes start making a squeaking sound when you apply pressure to them. The sound that you hear is actually metal rubbing against metal, and the sound that your brakes make is by design. Since it is very difficult to see a brake pad once it is installed, a wear bar is used to expose a piece of metal when the brake pad is worn down. This metal rubs against the metal brakes, creates the squeaking sound, and alerts you that the brake pads are almost gone.
You See A Lack Of Brake Dust
Do the wheels on your car look like they are covered in dust or are they fairly clean? Having no dust is actually an indication that the brake pads are worn down since you are actually looking at metallic particles that have come off the surface of the brake pad. If there is a lack of dust on your wheels, that means that there is barely any brake pad left. When accompanied by other symptoms, you'll be able to narrow down the problem to your brakes.
You Notice Your Steering Wheel Vibrating
Your steering wheel can vibrate for a variety of reasons, such as wheels that are out of alignment or rims that are bent. However, you want to pay attention to if the wheel vibrates only when you apply pressure to the brakes. The vibration happens because pressure is being applied to the brakes unevenly due to worn down brake pads. You'll want to get the brake pads replaced to ensure that the vehicle is safe to drive and eliminate that vibration.
Your Brake Pedal Feels Spongy
Does the brake pedal feel a bit weird when you press done on it? Instead of feeling firm and immediately applying pressure to the brakes, it may feel softer and go down further. Having a spongy brake pedal is an indication that the brake pads are worn down because they are not doing an effective job as they did in the past.
For more information, contact a break repair service.