Do You Know Your Carburettor From Your Clutch?

A dent on your passenger door is nothing compared to a problem with your brakes. Of all the things you can postpone when it comes to your car, brake problems aren't one of them, and neither is brake servicing. Brakes are among the most crucial safety components in your vehicle. If you notice that your car has brake problems, you need to immediately call a certified mechanic to diagnose the problem and fix it before you get back on the road. Continue reading for 4 signs that your brakes need to be serviced by a certified mechanic.

Brake Pedal Vibrating When Pressed

Your brake should be seamless whenever you step on it. If the brake pedal shakes violently when you step on it, there might be a problem with your brake pads. Brake pads are held together with a binding resin. As the brake pad wears down, the adhesive gets hot and smears across the rotor. Ideally, this will create a layer that's evenly distributed over the surface of the disc.

However, if the pad is overheated, the resin may not distribute uniformly. Certified mechanics refer to this problem as glazing. Glazing may cause your brake pedals to vibrate when you step on them. A pulsating brake isn't one that's trustworthy. Don't hesitate to call a certified mechanic. 

Poor Responsiveness When You Brake

If your brake pedal fails to respond properly to braking, then this is a sign of a leak in the hydraulic system. A leak in the hydraulic system results in poor braking performance, causing the pedal to feel soft and fail to respond well to your input. The cause may be a leak of the hydraulic brake fluid or an air leak within the brake hose. Regardless of the cause, the last thing you need is an unresponsive brake. Seek the services of a certified mechanic. 

Loud Noises While Braking

Your brakes should not make any noise when braking. If your brakes have a persistent squealing or squeaking noise, this may be a problem that requires the attention of a certified mechanic. A metallic squealing sound is likely an indication of wear and tear of your brake pads. If you continue to use worn-out brake pads, you'll start to hear a grinding noise, which means that you're starting to damage your rotors. The moment your brake pads start to wear out, ensure you call a certified mechanic.

Burning Smell When Braking

If your brakes and your wheels are producing a burning smell, it means that your brakes or clutch may be overheated. Continuing to drive your car in this state can result in total brake failure. If you start to see or smell smoke while you're driving, pull over immediately, and call a certified mechanic.

Car problems are the last thing you need to be practising your DIY skills on, especially when they have to do with your brakes. Reach out to a car mechanic if you suspect your brakes have a problem. Also, ensure you don't miss your car servicing appointments.