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A car’s brakes are one of the most important parts of the vehicle as a whole. Working brakes, as well as confidence that your brakes are functioning properly, are both key to having a safe and enjoyable ride. Here’s some advice on how to tell when it’s time to bring your car to the nearest Jeep dealer for top-tier brake service.
1. If It’s Driven 12,000 Miles or More
Like most car parts, having regularly scheduled maintenance checks is the best method to help prevent any unexpected problems in the future. For a Jeep, manufacturers recommend having the brakes checked out every 12,000 miles. Getting them serviced once a year is also okay.
2. If Braking Feels “Soft” or “Squishy”
Pressing the brake pedal should give a solid, firm feeling underfoot and feel steady throughout the whole process. If pressing the brake pedal is too easy (some have described it as the brakes feeling soft or squishy), or if the pedal has depressed to the floor, then you should take the car in to be serviced. This feeling may indicate that air had gotten into the brake lines and that they need to be flushed out with brake fluid.
3. If the Brakes Squeak, Squeal, Grind, or Make Unusual Noises
There are a plethora of noises that car brakes can make to indicate it’s in need of service. The most common noises heard are brakes squeaking, squealing, and grinding, but if the brake is making any kind of noise that it shouldn’t be, there may be something wrong– and you know your Jeep the best and what sounds it usually makes!
These noises likely indicate that the brake pads have worn down, causing the calipers to rub directly against the rotors. This could cause trouble while trying to stop the car, so getting new brake pads when needed is the smartest and safest choice.
4. If There Are Vibrations While Braking
Regardless of if the vibrations are coming from the steering wheel, brake pedal, or the entirety of the car if braking causes vibrations then you should bring the vehicle to get checked out. Vibrations like this could indicate that the rotors have become warped and no longer do their job of bringing the car to a smooth stop. This also lowers the effectiveness of the brakes.
5. If There’s a Burning Smell or Smoke From Wheels
A burning smell is a concrete sign that there is something wrong with your car. If pressing down on the brake pedal causes the burning smell, it’s likely that the brakes are overheated and need to cool down or risk having the brake fluid boil, which causes total brake failure. Smoke coming from one of the wheels may indicate that one of the brake calipers has gotten stuck.
Working brakes are one of the best ways to ensure that everyone on the road stays as safe as possible, so it’s good to get them regularly checked and know what to look out for just in case. Drop by Adams Jeep of Maryland for expert service and brake checks.
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