Question: What are the signs that I need a brake job?
Accomplished Auto Answer: Indicators of brake issues generally fall into two categories for drivers in Concord and our neighbors in Hopkinton, Contoocook, Boscawen, Bow, and Penacook: auditory signals or a pulsation in the brake pedal. Let us begin with the noise.
Most brake pads have an audible wear indicator. This is a small metal component that when makes contact with the brake rotor when the brake pads have worn down to that point, they need replacement. The resultant noise is typically a chirp or soft squeal. This serves as an early warning for Concord and our neighbors in Hopkinton, Contoocook, Boscawen, Bow, and Penacook drivers to have their brakes serviced while there remains sufficient brake pad material to ensure safe stopping.
Drivers in Concord and our neighbors in Hopkinton, Contoocook, Boscawen, Bow, and Penacook who ignore this chirping sound may eventually hear a grinding noise, which is more critical. This indicates that the friction material on the brake pads has been completely worn away, resulting in metal components rubbing against the rotor when braking. This metal-on-metal contact impairs braking efficiency and can damage the rotor, potentially necessitating resurfacing or replacement.
Pedal pulsation is another significant symptom. When the rotor is misaligned, it can push unevenly against the brake pads during braking. Various factors can cause this misalignment, including improper mating between the rotor and wheel hub. If unaddressed, the rotor's uneven spinning can lead to variable thickness and noticeable pulsation, reducing braking power due to decreased contact between the brake pad and rotor.
The team at Accomplished Auto in Concord and our neighbors in Hopkinton, Contoocook, Boscawen, Bow, and Penacook can diagnose the cause of such misalignment and provide appropriate solutions. Both unusual brake noises and pedal pulsation require attention from Concord and our neighbors in Hopkinton, Contoocook, Boscawen, Bow, and Penacook. We recommend having a technician at Accomplished Auto LLC inspect your brakes thoroughly and suggest necessary corrective measures.
Regular brake inspections are part of every vehicle's maintenance schedule. Consult your knowledgeable service advisor at Accomplished Auto to determine if it is time for a brake inspection.
For assistance, please contact us.