5 Signs It's Time for Brake Service and Repair

When you go out for a drive, your car’s brakes are all that stand between you and a potentially life-threatening accident. When you think about it, you’re asking a lot from your brakes. You expect them to bring thousands of pounds of steel, glass, and plastic from a high speed to a sudden halt, using nothing but half-inch thick brake pads. Over time, all that hard work takes a toll on your car’s brakes. That’s why you’ve got to know the warning signs of impending brake trouble. Here at APA Total Car Care, we’re happy to help you learn them. Here are five signs it’s time for brake service and repair in Gilbert, AZ or Queen Creek, AZ.

1. A Constant Squealing Sound = Brake Service and Repair

If you hear a constant squealing sound when you drive, your brake pads could be letting you know they’re about to wear out.

It happens because modern brake pads have a wear indicator—in the form of a thin metal strip—embedded in them. When brake pads wear down and near the end of their useful life, that strip will begin to grind against the rotors to let you know they need replacement.

If you hear a squeal coming from your wheels, reach out to APA Total Car Care for brake service and repair in Gilbert, AZ and Queen Creek, AZ.

2. Longer Stopping Distances Can Mean You Need Brake Service and Repair

An obvious sign that your car needs brake service and repair is when it takes your car longer than usual to stop. That could mean your brakes aren’t generating the right amount of braking force when you apply them.

It could be a sign of worn-out brake pads or a mechanical problem with your brake system. In either case, it’s wise to get your brakes checked at APA Total Car Care the moment you notice it takes more than the usual time to stop.

3. Clicking Could Mean Brake Service and Repair

When your brakes are working as they should, your brakes should be all but silent.

If you begin to hear a clicking sound when you apply your brakes, then something could be wrong. Most of the time, it means your brake pads are vibrating. It could be the result of a broken clip or brake housing.

If you ignore the sound, you do so at your peril. It’s a sure sign that your brakes need servicing.

4. Vibration in Your Brake Pedal Means You Need Brake Service and Repair

Your car’s brake system isn’t built to give you tactile feedback. That means when you step on your brakes, you should feel nothing but a slight amount of resistance.

If your brake pedal is vibrating when you step on it, it’s alerting you that something’s wrong. When it happens, it’s often a sign of uneven rotor wear or glazing. This calls for a servicing trip to our Gilbert, AZ or Queen Creek, AZ locations as soon as possible.

5. Your Car Pulls to One Side When Braking

When you apply your brakes, they should create an even amount of stopping force on both sides of your car. If they don’t, you’ll notice your car pulling to one side or another as you come to a stop.

When that happens, it means your brake pads didn’t wear evenly. If you ignore it, it could lead to additional damage to your car’s suspension and steering systems. Not to mention an eventual brake failure.

Contact APA Total Car Care for the Best Brake Service and Repair

If there’s one part of your car that you can’t afford to ignore, it’s your brakes. They play a crucial role in keeping you safe on the road. Thus, keeping them in good working order is a must.

If you notice any of the above warning signs, contact APA Total Car Care as soon as possible. We’re the one-stop shop for all your auto repair and brake service needs.

Contact APA Total Car Care today in Gilbert, AZ and Queen Creek, AZ.

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