Brake Repair & Maintenance
The following are signs of brake problems with your vehicle and some likely causes.
1) High pitch squeal or grating sound much like finger nails on a chalk board. Can be heard when braking or when driving with out touching the pedal. This is by far the most common complaint that people notice readily and there is a reason. The manufacturers over the last couple of decades have been kind enough to install warning tabs (or squealers) to notify you when your brake pads are worn out. This noise indicates you should have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible to prevent expensive brake rotor damage.
2) Steering wheel shakes back and forth when braking. Usually first noted at freeway speeds but worsens till does it all the time. This is caused by your front brake rotors warping. This is a common problem here in Oregon with our wet conditions. You apply the brakes, the rotors get very hot and then you get water on them from rain, a puddle, etc. Sometimes this can be repaired by re-machining the rotor but often requires replacement of the rotor. It should be noted that factory standards are that if the rotors are replaced the pads should also be replaced if under 60% It should also be noted that this can be caused by improper installation of wheels.
3) Brake pedal moves up and down or entire vehicle vibrates when stopping. Being related to the above it also begins slowly and continues to worsen.. This is usually related to either your brake rotors in the rear being warped or if you have drum brakes the drums being out of round. The repairs are as listed above.
4) Brake pedal goes too far down then if immediately applied will be firm and where it should be. This is something that can either happen suddenly or slowly over a period of time. This is usually on a rear drum brake vehicle and is caused by the brakes being out of adjustment. This problem can however be a sign of a serious problem of a caliper sticking or hydraulic problem and should be inspected for problems as soon as possible.
5)Brake pedal fees soft and sponge like. This is usually noted on gradual stops and when sitting at a stop light pedal may even continue to sink. This indicates a failure in the hydraulic system and is a severe safety issue. The vehicle should be inspected immediately for reason.
6) Brake pedal randomly goes almost to the floor . This almost happens suddenly and with out warning and often the next time you apply the brakes all seems normal. In many ways because of the fact that it can return to normal operation this is the most serious condition listed. It is caused by an internally failing master cylinder and should be immediately inspected and repaired.
7) Vehicle pulls to one side every time you brake. This can happen only when braking hard or at all times. (see below if it only happens once after getting wet) This can be caused by many reasons such as suspension problems, alignment problems, hydraulic problems, uneven brake wear, contamination, and more. It should be inspected and diagnosed as soon as possible.
There are a few things that can be considered normal with your brake system but if there is any doubt at all you should have your system inspected. Normal conditions can be: A squeak noted on the first few stops after sitting caused by surface rust forming on pads and rotors, sudden braking causing a buzz noise under the hood and even a vibration in the brake pedal can be your anti lock system activating, and a pull to one side or the other immediately after entering a puddle can be caused by a lot of water on the brake pads.
If you have any of the above concerns feel free to call us at Canyon Auto Repair with you questions 503-646-2573
