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We tend to take our vehicle’s brakes for granted. We use them throughout the day as we travel back and forth between our home, office, grocery store, mall, and other places. While we depend upon them for our safety, we rarely think about them until problems emerge. Like most other auto parts, your braking system and its individual components endure wear and tear. After enough time they will need to be replaced.

Most people wait until they notice pulling, pulsing, grinding, or squealing from their braking system before they take their vehicles into the shop. Here we will explain how these problems happen so that you can understand your car's brakes better.

Pulling To The Side

Sometimes pressing on the pedal to slow your car can result in your vehicle pulling to one side. Turn the whell slightly to the other side to compensate for the pull. There are several factors that can cause this. For example, if oil leaks onto the pads or the shoes on one side, it can prevent the brake's operation. The pulling can also be caused by the pads or shoes not being adjusted properly.

Squealing And Grinding

This is a common “wear and tear” problem; pads and shoes will eventually wear down. When they do, they’ll contribute to friction, which causes squealing. Normally, the problem can be resolved relatively inexpensively by replacing the worn parts. If the problem is allowed to persist, the rotor may become damaged, which leads to a grinding noise. At that point, the cost of repairs will increase because the rotor will usually need to be smoothed.

The Pulsing Pedal

When you feel pulsing in the brake pedal, it can be causes by the anti-lock system being engaged. However, more often than not, the pulsing is caused by a warped rotor. A rotor can become warped over time due to heat, friction, and even moisture. The warp causes an uneven surface, which leads to the pulse you’ll feel in the pedal. This can normally be resolved by smoothing the rotor.

Lackluster Performance

You might find that, over time, your brakes become far less effective toward slowing your vehicle than they once were. This can be due to a few different reasons. First, the pads and shoes can crystallize as the result of excess heat due to friction. Second, an oil seal may develop a leak allowing oil to soak the pads and shoes. Third, your brake performance can suffer if the engine develops a vacuum problem.

Because your vehicle’s brakes are critical to your safety, not to mention the safety of your passengers and other motorists, learn to identify early signs of trouble. If you notice any of them, have a trained mechanic inspect your car and resolve the underlying issue.

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