
While you can put off some vehicle repair jobs, any issues with the brakes should be handled immediately. Brake failure is far more likely to happen if a driver ignores early warning signs of a developing problem. If you experience the following indications of brake trouble, head to your local GMC dealer without delay for brake repair.
Squealing Noises
If you hear a high-pitched squealing or squeaking sound, the most common cause will be a worn-out brake pad. When the friction layer on brake pads becomes too thin, they’re usually designed to make this distinctive squealing sound in order to draw your attention. You’ll need to have the brake pad replaced promptly.
Grinding Sounds
Stones or loosened bolts and pins getting stuck in the caliper might create a grinding or clattering sound. Grinding noises might also be caused by an excessively worn-down brake pad where the friction layer has disappeared entirely. In this case, the pad needs to be replaced immediately before it damages the rotor.
Reduced Stopping Power
Brakes should always be strong and highly responsive. If you ever sense a reduction in the stopping power of your brakes, it’s safest to pull over and try to figure out the problem. Weakened brakes may have started to overheat from excessive use; overheating can sometimes cause a temporary loss of stopping power.
Burning Smell
Overheating brakes might also create a burning smell. This smell primarily comes from the brake fluid starting to boil inside the hoses. It’s best never to ignore a burning smell inside your car.
Soft-Feeling Brakes
When brake fluid leaks or lessens for any reason, hydraulic pressure is reduced inside the brake hoses. This hinders the stopping signal as it travels from your foot on the brake pedal to the calipers, making driving unsafe. The reduced hydraulic pressure may also make the brake pedal feel softer than usual.
Veering to One Side
If your car veers to one side when you press the brake pedal, you probably have a brake problem on the other side of your car. In this case, both your stopping power and handling may be significantly reduced until you get the problem fixed.
Vibrating Pedal
When a rotor disc in a car’s brakes becomes warped because of age or overheating, you may feel vibrations through the brake pedal. A warped rotor can sometimes be repaired with a resurfacing procedure, but a severely damaged rotor usually needs to be replaced.
Have Regular Brake Servicing at Your Local GMC Dealer
Routine brake servicing is crucial for safe driving. It’s generally recommended to have brakes serviced twice a year. If you put your brakes through particularly heavy daily usage by commuting in stop-and-go traffic or driving on steep mountainous roads, then you may need to have your brakes serviced three or even four times a year. Have your brakes serviced and repaired today by qualified technicians at Oxendale GMC. We’re a locally trusted full-service dealership with an excellent range of vehicles and great customer service as well.

