Brakes keep you safe on the road, whether you’re facing your daily drive or need to react quickly in an emergency. Over time those brakes wear out, though. Knowing when to visit the Chevy dealer for a brake repair can help keep you and your passengers safe.
1. Squeaks and Grinding Noises
Have you ever hit the brakes only to hear a sound like nails on a chalkboard? That high-pitched squeal is usually your brake pads telling you they’re getting thin. If it sounds more like grinding, that’s even worse. The pads might be worn down completely, resulting in metal-on-metal contact.
2. Shaking and Rattling
If braking leads to some bad vibrations or pulsing in the brake pedal or steering wheel, you might have warped rotors. Heat from heavy braking can make them bend out of shape, leading to that shaky feeling. It’s uncomfortable, and it can mean your brakes aren’t working as well as they should.
3. Soft, Spongy Brake Pedal
Pressing down on the brake pedal shouldn’t feel like stepping in something squishy. That soft, spongy feeling could mean there’s air in your brake lines or an issue with the master cylinder. It’s a big deal because it can seriously cut down on how effectively you can stop.
4. Pulling to the Side
If your Chevy suddenly pulls to one side when you brake, you could be dealing with a sticky caliper. It means the brakes are applying uneven pressure, making your car veer off course. It’s annoying and can wear your brakes out unevenly, not to mention it’s bad for your safety.
5. A Burning Smell
Pushing your brakes hard and then smelling something that reminds you of burning rubber means those brakes are overheating. Pull over and let them cool off a bit. If you keep pushing them, you could end up with brake fade, where your brakes stop working altogether.
6. Needing More Room to Stop
Finding yourself pushing the brake sooner than you used to at stop signs? If it feels like your stopping distance has grown, it’s a pretty clear sign your brakes aren’t as sharp as they used to be. Whether it’s worn pads, leaky fluid, or bad rotors, longer stopping distances mean it’s time for a brake inspection.
Have Your Brakes Checked at the Chevy Dealer
If you’ve noticed signs of trouble with your brakes, the best thing to do is head to the dealership right away. Brakes that don’t work correctly can be a serious safety hazard, so don’t put off taking care of them.
Regular brake inspections can help you avoid accidents and expensive repairs. Call Olson Chevrolet in Redwood Falls, MN, to schedule your next brake check.
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