Brake problems are something you can never just brush aside with a vehicle. If you notice your brakes starting to have problems they didn’t have before, it’s important you take your vehicle to a brake repair shop in Corpus Christi, TX as soon as possible.

Here are a few of the most common brake problems you should keep an eye out for in your diesel-powered vehicle:

  • Strange noises: Your brakes should never make any squealing or howling noises. If you hear these noises or get a grinding sensation when you press down on the brake pedal, this is most likely a sign that your brake pads are wearing out and need to be replaced—the metal underneath the pads is beginning to grind on metal, which is bad for your vehicle. Many brake pads have little warning mechanisms built into them when they start to get worn down to a certain point, which will alert you that it’s time to make a change.
  • The car moves to one side while braking: Does your vehicle swerve to the right or lift when you hit the brakes? If so, this is likely a sign your brake pads have some uneven wear on them. This can be a dangerous problem—the drivability of your vehicle is being affected as a result of this uneven wear and tear. There are other potential problems that could cause this sensation, including a wheel cylinder being stuck in place or the brake fluid being contaminated with debris. If the latter is the issue, you can correct the problem by having your brake fluid flushed.
  • You feel vibrations when applying the brake pedal: These vibrations might be felt down by the brakes or on the steering while you slow down. If this shaking or vibrating feeling happens while you are applying the brakes, the problem is likely a warped rotor. The rotor is the part of your vehicle your brake pads grab onto inside a disc brake system, ultimately providing the friction that brings your car to a halt. If the rotor gets warmed, the surface area that the brake pads are supposed to connect with gets smaller, which means there will be significantly less braking power in your vehicle.
  • The brake pedal is too soft: There should always be some resistance when you apply the brakes in your vehicle. If the brake immediately goes down to the floor or if you get a soft, spongy feeling while applying the brakes, there are several potential issues you may be dealing with, including air trapped in the brake lines or brake pads that have become significantly worn down. If you begin experiencing this, you should make an appointment to have your breaks checked as soon as you can.

You don’t want to put off having your brakes checked if you’re having problems with them. For more information about common brake problems and their solutions, contact our diesel brake repair shop in Corpus Christi, TX today.