Frequently Asked Questions: Brake Repairs
When the residents of New Castle, PA and the surrounding areas have questions about their vehicle’s brakes, the qualified team at TireXpress has the answers. Keep reading to learn the answers to some of our most frequently asked brake questions.
Why does my car shake when I hit the brakes?
If it’s been a while since your brake rotors or pads have been replaced, they could be the underlying cause of your car’s shaking. When brake rotors become too worn out and require repairs, their typically flat surface will begin to develop uneven, rigid areas. The same goes for brake pads. These worn-out components will likely exhibit uneven wear, which will inevitably cause your vehicle to shake as it slows.
Why does my brake pedal feel spongy?
Several issues may make your brakes feel spongy under your foot. Some of the most common reasons include:
Air in the brake line(s)
Damaged or leaking brake line(s)
Leaking disc brake caliper(s)
Worn master cylinder
Leaking wheel cylinder(s)
ABS hydraulic assembly malfunction
Our team at TireXpress will help diagnose the underlying problem and get your car back to braking correctly in no time!
How often should I have my brake fluid changed?
As seasoned professionals, we encourage our customers to have their brake fluid changed regularly as a part of routine maintenance. But as a rule of thumb, switching to fresh brake fluid every 1-2 years or 24,000 miles is efficient for most vehicles.
Why do I hear grinding noise when I press on my brakes?
Brake grinding can be a serious problem and needs to be addressed immediately before the issue becomes more severe. One of the main reasons for grinding brakes is the rotor disc coming into contact with part of the caliper. The grinding sound is typically the result of extreme wear to the brake pads or rotors, which will require repairs and even replacements before braking normally again.
Why does my car pull to the right or left side when I brake?
Though the team at TireXpress will need to perform a thorough inspection to diagnose the problem, there are a few reasons this could be happening, including:
Uneven tire pressure
Worn brake pads
Worn or warped rotors
A stuck caliper
A collapsed brake hose
Worn suspension parts
How long do brake pads last?
On average, and with proper maintenance, brakes pads should last for at least 40,000 miles. They can reach as many as 70,000 miles when efficiently maintained.
When to change brake pads?
Multiple signs will let you know when your brake pads need to be replaced, including:
Squeaking or squealing noises coming from your brakes
The indicator light on your dashboard illuminating
A deep grinding sound
A vibrating brake pedal
Worn or thin brake pads
How long do rotors last?
Depending on how you drive, what you drive, and what type of rotors you have, they can last anywhere from 20,000 to 70,000 miles. One of our qualified technicians can take a look at your vehicle’s rotors and let you know their condition.
How do you know if your vehicle is having brake problems?
Your car will let you know! Do not ignore signs that your brakes are having problems, and get your vehicle to us immediately if you notice:
A red or yellow brake indicator lights up on your dashboard
A high-pitched noise that stops when you apply the brakes
A grinding sound and feeling under your foot when pushing down on the petal
Your steering wheel vibrates when you use the brakes
Your brake feels “softer” than usual or sinks straight to the floor when you push on it
Your car begins veering to the left or right when you brake
A harsh, burning, chemical odor while driving
Your vehicle starts rocking or bouncing when you have to brake sharply
How much does brake service cost?
Prices depend on what you need to have serviced. If you only need to replace your brake pads, it will cost around $100-$200. However, more extensive repairs and replacements for your braking system costs can exceed $500.
How can I prolong the lifespan of my brakes?
You can prolong the life of your brakes by:
Routinely checking and maintaining your brakes’ fluid levels
Replacing brake fluid when necessary
Inspecting the brake lines and master cylinder
Checking and replacing brake pads if they become worn
Ensuring that the brake rotors and discs do not have wear or tear
