Though your vehicle’s brakes don’t typically need to be replaced often, it is one component that should always be in the best working condition. But how do you know when it’s time? Our team of service professionals at BMW of Meridian are here to help.
Below, you’ll find the top signs you need your brakes replaced as well as some information on how to keep them in tip-top condition for longer. With this knowledge under your belt, you can rest easy knowing your Meridian, Philadelphia, and Laurel, Mississippi, commutes will be safe.
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Brake Maintenance Quick Facts |
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Brake Pad & Rotor Inspection |
Every 6,000 to 8,000 miles |
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Brake Fluid Change |
Every 25,000 miles |
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Brake Pad Change |
Every 40,000 to 50,000 miles |
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Brake Rotor Change |
Every 30,000 to 70,000 miles |
1. Grinding
One of the telltale signs you need brake replacement is hearing a grinding sound when you stop. This horrible metal-on-metal noise can be an indication of many things going wrong in your brake system. It could mean your brake pads are worn down, the disk and caliper could be rubbing together, or your rotors have gone bad.
No matter the cause of this sound, it’s crucial to have your brakes inspected and possibly replaced right away. If not taken care of, you could lose braking power and cause more damage.
2. Vibration
If you’re feeling more vibration in your cabin than usual, even on perfectly paved roads, your brakes could be the cause. Warped rotors are caused by harsh braking over time, like frequently driving on steep hills or continuous towing.
This creates a lot of friction and heat in your braking system, causing your rotors to warp. The result? Your brake pads won’t be able to grab the rotor evenly, causing a vibration when stopping. This could mean you just need new rotors, or you may require a full brake replacement, depending on the damage.
3. Responsiveness
Are you noticing your brakes are slow to respond or your brake pedal pushes to the floor easily? There could be an issue with your brake line. Typically, if there is a leak in your brake lines, you’ll see a puddle under your vehicle that looks similar to oil (though not as thick).
As any type of leak under your vehicle is a sign that something is wrong, a leak in your brake line can be detrimental. Have this problem assessed as soon as possible to ensure safety on the roads.
4. Uneven Braking
When you come to a stop, do you notice that your vehicle drifts to the right or left unintentionally? This could be a sign that some of your brakes aren’t working as well as the others. This is caused by uneven wearing in your brakes.
This problem may cause brake fluid issues as well as pulling and means it’s time to have your brakes checked by a professional.
5. Slow Braking
Brake fade, or when your vehicle takes more time to come to a complete stop, is another sign you need brake repairs or replacement. This could be a warning of several issues, including worn brake pads or signs of a future system failure.
If you’re slow to stop, drive carefully to our authorized service center for a brake inspection. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to the stopping power of your vehicle.
When you think something may be wrong with your vehicle’s brakes, our team of professional technicians can help. All drivers in the Meridian, Philadelphia, and Laurel, MS, area have to do is schedule an appointment and BMW of Meridian will take care of the rest.
