Don’t take your European automobiles brake system for granted. This is the most important safety system on your Beamer or Benz. It’s important to have the system inspected every 12,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. By allowing RSW European Automotive Repair to inspect your brake system, you give us the opportunity to find minor problems before they become major ones. Here are signs that your European automobile’s brakes are going out.
ABS/Brake Warning
One of the first indications of a problem is an illuminated ABS or Brake light on your dashboard. These lights should only turn on when you first start your European automobile. The Brake light will also come on when you set your European automobile’s parking brake.
Hot, Burning Odors
Hot or burning odors when you apply the brakes indicate that the brakes are overheating. If the brakes get to the point where the brake fluid boils, they will fail and you will smell burning chemicals. If the brake pads are glazed, you will smell burning carpet.
Leaking Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is either brown or red. If you see spots of this fluid color on your garage floor around your wheels, your brake system is likely leaking fluid. Low brake fluid can make it difficult to stop your European automobile. It’s important to get the leak fixed right away.
Noises When Braking
Squealing noises when you apply the brakes indicate that your brake pad surfaces are getting too low. If you hear grinding or scraping, the surfaces are gone completely. Squealing noises when applying the brakes also indicate that the brakes are overheating.
Pulling When Braking
Your European automobile should not pull to a side when you apply the brakes. If it does, you likely have a stuck caliper. Unfortunately, your vehicle will continue to pull until you get the caliper repaired.
Soft/Sinking Brake Pedal
Your brake pedal should give you resistance every time you use it. It should stop 1 1/2 inches from the floorboard. If the pedal feels soft or sinks all the way to the floor, your master cylinder could be going out. You may also have air in the brake lines.
Wobbling When Braking
Finally, wobbling or vibrating when you apply the brakes could indicate that you have a small piece of road debris stuck in one of the calipers. This is also a sign that you have warped rotors.
Call RSW European Automotive Repair in Green Brook Township, NJ, today to schedule an appointment for a brake inspection for your European automobile if you are experiencing any of the problems listed above.