Brake problems vary
greatly with the make and model of a car, the age of the car and other
variables. If your car is experiencing brake problems, bring it to a
mechanic. You may, however, be able to narrow down some of the possible
problems yourself. Below are some general guidelines.
- Step off the brakes, with the
car's engine turned off. A soft or mushy brake pedal indicates that
you may be low on brake fluid, or may need to bleed your brakes.
- If it is safe, drive the car at low
speed, braking as needed. You may need new brake pads, or to clean
the brakes, if they squeal.
- In a clear area, step sharply on
the brake pedal. If the brakes do not stop the car effectively,
several things may be wrong, including worn pads, contaminated brake
fluid or contaminated brake pads.
- If the brakes pull the car to one
side, you may need to adjust the brake's clearance, may have to
replace the pads or rotors, or may have insufficient hydraulic
pressure in one part of the brake system.
- Begin driving forward slowly. If
the brakes bind or drag, it may be due to grease on the pads or
scored rotors. Visit a mechanic if you do not know how to fix
brakes. Describe the car's performance to the mechanic in as much
detail as you can. Check brake fluid regularly. If you have
determined that your brakes are bad, avoid driving the car until
they are fixed. Computerized brakes, which are standard in many
cars, need to be fixed by a mechanic.
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