Halloween is almost here. It's time for some fun tricks, tasty treats and a few good scares. However, you should leave those scary situations in the haunted houses, not in your car. It may be time for a proper brake inspection.
When it comes to driver safety, few things are as important as the brake system. You want it working well, so you can stop and slow down as you need to. This is especially true as we head into the wetter, colder and darker fall and winter months when road conditions aren't as ideal. Fox Run Auto in Bear, DE is offering free brake inspections this October. Just visit the home page of this website and click through the top banner for their monthly coupon specials. Print that out and bring it in for a free brake inspection by the Mid-Atlantic auto repair experts at Fox Run Auto.
It's always a good idea to get your brakes inspected, whether you think there is a problem or not. You'll want to get your brake fluid, brake rotors, brake pads, sensors and other important system components looked at by a professional mechanic to make sure everything is functioning the way it should be. However, there are some signs that you can look (and listen) for to know when you might have a brake problem.
Here are 8 common signs of brake problems according to Fox Run Auto:
1. Brake Light is On
Your dashboard or onboard display will have warning lights specific to the anti-lock brake system (ABS) that will come on if brake problems are detected.
2. Squeaking, Grinding or Squealing Noises
This is usually a sign of the brake pads getting too thin and you start to get metal-on-metal contact between the brake rotors and calipers.
3. Leaking Brake Fluid
If you notice fluid leaks around your tires, there may be a brake fluid leak that you will want repaired. It could also be suspension hydraulic fluid. Most brake fluid is almost clear with a slight yellow tint, though it can vary in color. If it appears dark, then that's another sign of brake problems.
4. Weakness in Brake Pedal
If you notice that your brake pedal seems weak (less resistance than normal) or you have to press it all the way to the floor to stop, then that's definitely a sign of a brake problem.
5. Vibrations or Wobbling While Braking
If you are coming to a stop and your car is feeling wobbly or has lots of vibrations, you should get your brakes checked.
6. Burning Smell While Braking
If you notice a burning smell every time you hit the brakes, that's a definite sign that something isn't right with your brake system.
7. Car Pulls to One Side
If the car pulls hard to one side while driving, then it's likely a wheel alignment or suspension issue. If it only does this while you are braking, then it's likely a brake issue worth getting inspected.
8. Car Not Stopping Quickly
If your car isn't stopping as quickly as it should, then this is the most obvious sign of a brake problem. Bad brakes are not something you want to take chances with, so get them inspected before it's too late!
Fox Run Auto is here to help with your brake inspection, repair and maintenance needs. Call us today at (302) 597-9205 or schedule your service appointment online.