Motor Crazy - Tracking an Obsession With Motor Vehicles

Tips for Troubleshooting Your Vehicle's Brake Problems

24 August 2018

Johnny Richardson

Never ignore any problem you're experiencing with a vehicle's brakes, as even the slightest loss of stopping power can result in a collision. Brake problems can also cause a vehicle to skid or slide when you apply the brake pedal and especially if you need to slam on the brakes, which is also very dangerous when you're on the road.

Remember, too, that brake problems usually get more complicated and more expensive to fix the longer you put off those repairs! Note a few troubleshooting tips you might consider when your vehicle is having brake problems so you know what might need repairing or replacing.

Look for loss of stopping power

If you need to pump your brakes to get them to "grab," this often signals a loss of brake fluid. That fluid works to build up the pressure used by the brake pads to grab the rotors, which then stops the tyres from turning.

If you need to virtually stand on the brake pedal to get the brakes to operate, this can also indicate a lack of brake fluid, but this also might mean that the brake pads or rotors are worn down. If these parts are not in good condition, the pads won't squeeze the rotors properly and the vehicle's tyres won't stop turning, so you need to add even more pressure on the pedal to get those pads to squeeze against the rotor. You might also hear a grinding or squealing sound when these parts wear down, or may feel a type of grinding under your foot when you apply the pedal.

Look for too much stopping power

If you apply the brake pedal and your vehicle seems to slam to a stop, this might indicate a stuck or slipping brake pad. If the brake pad doesn't release the rotor when you let off the brake pedal, it might react too quickly the next time you apply the brakes. If a pad is slipping, it could also be applying pressure to the rotor even when you're not using the brakes, so it then becomes too responsive when you touch the brake pedal.

Look for shaking

If a tyre shakes or shimmies when you brake, this can be an issue with the alignment of your vehicle, or the tyre might have a loose lug nut. However, this can also be a problem with a slipping brake pad, as the pad may be grabbing the rotor unevenly as the calliper pushes it against the rotor. The rotor might also have deep grooves or other such damage, so that the pads can't grip it smoothly.

If your brakes are still giving you issues, it's best to let a local mechanic perform brake repairs. Visit your local auto shop to learn more.

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