Every motorist is aware of how vital the brake system is to the functioning of their vehicle. Nevertheless, not many are knowledgeable about how it functions and how the signs of decline will manifest. While you may know that all you need to do is press down on your brake pedal to slow down or alt your vehicle, do you know what happens once you push down on the pedal?
After the brakes are compressed, they generate hydraulic pressure in your vehicle's master cylinder. This cylinder then transfers force to the hydraulic lines via brake fluid. The pressure reaches the wheel's cylinders and callipers, which the cause squeezing of the brake pads and slows your car down. Thus, any malfunction of the brake system can affect any of these components that work to stop your vehicle. So what are some of the critical symptoms of decline that you should be aware of so you can stay abreast of brake problems?
Squealing, screeching, grinding and other weird sounds
One of the first indicators of a problem with your brake system is the onset of unusual sounds. In general, these sounds will come about due to friction, and this tends to translate into damage brake pads. If you do not replace the worn pads post haste, the damage will quickly spread to other auto parts that will be overworking to make up for the decline of the pads. Hence, it is advisable for every motorist to keep a sharp ear out for any noise when the brakes are operational.
Pulsing, shaking and strange vibrations from the pedal and steering wheel
The moment you begin to experience weird sensations from the pedal and steering whenever you engage your brakes, you should be wary of your brake system trying to communicate that something is off-kilter. The pulsing sensations typically stem from metallic components rubbing or grinding against each other. Resultantly, the parts that are coming into contact will steadily wear down and become non-functional. The longer that these strange vibrations go unchecked, the higher the likelihood that you will develop mechanical problems with your brake rotors and spend exorbitant amounts of money on repairs.
Utilising excessive force to engage the brakes
Another early symptom of brake decline that all motorists should be aware of is the need to employ excessive pressure to engage the brakes. Having to press your foot farther down than usual to slow your car down indicates that your brake pads are wearing thin. This symptom is severe because it is only a matter of time before the brakes fail entirely.
