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The Importance of Brake Performance
Your vehicle carries some pretty valuable cargo. Let's talk about a major safety aspect of your car -- the braking system. Being "out of sight, out of mind," the braking system on most people's cars go unnoticed, until a problem crops up. What are the most common signs of brake failure?
Poor braking performance, hard to stop the car
Squealing or grinding noises during braking
Pulling to one side, or grabbing
Loss of brake pedal
Pulsation of the brake pedal during braking
Clicking noises during braking
Excessive drag during acceleration ("Anchors Away" Syndrome)
Now that we've outlined the most common signs, let's discuss them in detail.
Poor braking performance can occur for a few reasons.
Crystallized brake pads and/or shoes: The brakes have been heated up to the point that they become hardened and are no longer effective at grabbing and stopping the rotation of the brake drum or rotor. This condition usually occurs after the brakes have been overused, either because of excessive panic stops or "riding of the brake." The braking material must be soft enough to wear and grab hold of the drum or rotor to stop the car. Excessive overheating hardens the braking material beyond its ability to do this. Consequently the brakes become ineffective.
Oil-or grease-soaked brakes can negatively affect braking -- how does this occur? Oil from the rear differential or front transaxle can get on the brakes from an oil seal that might have failed. Grease from a failed rubber boot on a front end component (such as a ball joint or tie rod) can find its way onto the brakes and cause this symptom as well.
Loss of power assist from the power brake booster is another cause for poor braking performance. It can occur due to a loss of engine vacuum, or deterioration of the vacuum brake booster diaphragm.
Squealing or grinding noises coming from the brakes is usually an indication of worn or glazed brake pads and/or shoes. It's time to have them checked. If you catch them in time you will save money. Procrastinate and suffer the financial consequences.
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