You don’t want to leave your vehicle’s brakes neglected. They’re one of your last lines of defense against catastrophe, and you want them to respond the moment you hit them. Making sure they get proper and regular service will keep them operational. Read on with the service experts here at the Downtown Auto Group, as we take a look at when it might be time to get your brakes looked at.
What Are There Signs My Brakes Need Service?
It’s rare for brakes to just outright fail without some early warning signs there’s an issue. The most obvious sign is if your brake light appears on the dashboard, which is a sure indication you need to get your vehicle to a service centre as soon as possible. There are a few other signs it might be time to have your brakes examined:
- Loud metallic squealing or squeaking when you apply the brakes.
- Grinding noises when you apply the brakes.
- Wobbling or pulsing brakes.
- Leaking brake fluid.
- Spongy or soft brake pedals.
- Pulling to one side when braking.
- A burning or chemical smell.
What Can I Do To Best Care For My Brakes?
The best way to extend the life of your brakes is to go easy on them. If you practice a more cautious driving style which avoids sudden hard stops, your brakes will wear out much slower than the average. It’s also a good idea to stay in a low gear while driving on hilly or winding roads, to help prevent additional wear on your brakes.
When Should I Get My Brakes Serviced?
As with most mechanical components in your vehicle, the more you drive, the more often you need to get service. For the average driver, you should get your brakes looked at by a technician every six months, and you’re probably looking at a brake pad replacement roughly every four years.
Schedule Your Brake Service with Downtown Auto Group
Whether you’ve noticed an issue with your brakes, or it’s just been a while since they’ve been looked at, you should get your vehicle looked at. Don’t gamble when it comes to your brakes! Book a service appointment with the Downtown Auto Group in Toronto, ON, today!
