The typical brake system in a passenger vehicle consists of disc brakes on the front wheels and disc or drum brakes on the rear.
When a driver depresses the brake pedal, a piston in the master cylinder forces brake fluid through a series of metal lines, rubber hoses and various valves to the brake assemblies located at each wheel. This causes the brakes to engage, stopping the vehicle.
Over time, brake pads (disc brakes) and brake shoes (drum brakes) will wear out with normal use, requiring replacement.
Firestone Complete Auto Care recommends having your brake system inspected and serviced according to your vehicle's owner's manual, or at the first sign of a problem. Here are some brake warning signs:
- The brake warning light comes on, which may indicate a potential loss of braking capability.
- There's a high-pitched squeal or a metallic grinding noise when you depress the brake pedal.
- The brake pedal either feels mushy or requires extreme pressure when depressed.
- The vehicle pulls to one side while braking.
- The brakes vibrate or pulsate when applied.
If you experience any of these warning signs, you should have an ASE Certified technician inspect your brake system. These symptoms may indicate possible brake system issues, including worn brake pads or shoes, air in the brake lines, leaking brake fluid or warped brake rotors.
Before getting on the road this summer, take some time to make sure your vehicle is in proper working order -- there's always time to brake for safety.
Trisha Hessinger is a former racecar driver and nationally recognized automotive education specialist for Firestone Complete Auto Care.