Brake problems are one of the most frightening vehicle issues you can come across. When the car in front of you on the highway stops on a dime, it’s imperative your brakes respond as quickly as you do. If your brakes are malfunctioning in that crucial moment, the chance of a devastating collision increases significantly.
Brake issues are dangerous, and no car should have them soon after you purchase it. If you believe your car may have been sold to you with a defect, reach out to us at 833.422.7529 for a free consultation and we will investigate the problem.
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Common Brake Warning Signs
Before we discuss the causes of brake issues, let’s examine some of the most common warning signs. You may have brake issues if you notice:
- your vehicle drifts to one side when you brake
- strange smells exacerbated by braking
- vibrations in the brake pedal or steering wheel
- you need to push farther on the brake pedal to stop
- the brake light is on. Note: this light may mean your car’s ready for routine maintenance, or it could mean your emergency brake is on. Once those two possibilities are eliminated, something else may be the cause. If that’s the case, read on!
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to have your brakes inspected as soon as possible. Pushing that trip to your dealer off for any duration can cause irreversible damage, leading to costly replacements and labor – or even serious injury.
Causes of Brake Problems
The single biggest cause of brake problems is wear. Think of it like the brakes on your bike. As those pads wear down, you have to pull tighter on your brake handles to stop. After that pad wears away, braking grows much more difficult. It’s the same deal with your car.
Leaking brake fluid can also decrease your performance. While you’re more likely to have worn brake pads than you are to leak brake fluid, it’s something you should keep in mind when considering good brake health.
Preventing Brake Issues
Like many other vehicle problems, you can prevent brake issues by adjusting your driving habits. Two of the best things you can do:
- Keep your foot off the brake pedal. Yes, you need to use your brakes when a light or obstruction is ahead, but you should aim to use them as infrequently as possible. This requires careful, thoughtful driving. Keep a safe distance away from the rest of traffic, adjust your speed to the traffic around you, and be mindful of street lights ahead. If you’re approaching a red light, ease out of the gas and coast to the intersection. If done properly, you may reach the intersection by the time the green light appears. When driving through the city, choose the streets that have few stops and less traffic. The less harsh braking you need to do on any trip, the better.
- Get rid of the excess cargo. Your car weighs enough as it is without excess luggage weighing it down. Take a quick look in your backseat and trunk. If you’re filling your car all year long with beach supplies and the chair you’ve been meaning to drop off at your in-laws, you’re not doing your brakes any favors. Extra weight puts a heavier load on your brakes, causing faster wear.
Seek Legal Assistance for Brake Issues
If you experience brake issues frequently, despite your dealer’s best efforts, you may have been sold a lemon. Robison Lemon Law Group can help you navigate both the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act and lemon laws to ensure you receive the justice you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, so you can get into a new car and put hesitation behind you.