Nov 19, 2021

Keeping your brakes in tip-top shape is one of the most important things that you can do when it comes to caring for your vehicle. Brakes are something that we take for granted and don’t really realize how important they are until there’s an emergency. The difference between high-functioning and deteriorated brakes can be lifesaving. Here are some signs to look out for that will let you know it’s time for brake service at your Ford dealer.

Ford Dealer: How Often Should You Get Brake Service for Your Ford?

Your Vehicle Pulls

Although all of your brake pads start out evenly, over time, it’s natural for some to become eroded faster than others. When this has occurred, you might notice a jolt to either the left or right when you come to a stop. At first, you might think that you accidentally yanked the steering wheel in that direction, but the likely cause is that one side of your brake pads has become deteriorated. You’ll want to have this serviced right away.

Your Car Is Slow to Stop

One of the immediate signs that you need your brakes replaced is when they aren’t responding the way they should when you apply pressure to the brake pedal. This often occurs if you live in an area where you are constantly driving downhill. To stop your car from picking up too much speed, you will always have your foot on the brakes which will erode the friction between the brake pads and the rotor.

Clicking Noises

Your brake pads are put together by a variety of parts. Over a long period of time and through natural wear and tear, some of these parts may have become compromised. A worn-out bolt or a broken clip could result in a rattling or knocking sound. These are sounds that you don’t want to hear. If you’re noticing unfamiliar noises, trust your gut, and get your vehicle into the shop as soon as possible.

High-Pitched Squealing

That irritating high-pitched squealing sound should actually be music to your ears because it’s your vehicle’s way of letting you know that you need new brakes. All modern vehicles will have a built-in mechanism to sound the alarm when your brake pads have become too thin. This piece will grind on the rotor to create the unpleasant shriek to lead you to your mechanic.

Brake Pedal Shaking

Salt is meant for shaking but brake pedals are not. If you notice a vibration or feel like the pedal is shaking when you apply pressure or release the brakes, it’s a red alert that you need service. What has likely happened is that the sticky stuff that holds your brakes together has become too thin and spread unevenly across your rotor. This will cause a shaking sensation that you will be able to notice immediately.

 Your brakes aren’t something to take lightly. If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, call Rochester Ford today and schedule an appointment with our experienced service team to get your car back on the road in no time.