The brakes are without a doubt one of the most important parts of your Ford — keeping them in good working order is critical to the safety of your vehicle. How do you know if your car, truck, or SUV needs a brake repair? We have some helpful hints below. If you notice any warning signs that your brakes might be in trouble, it is definitely time to bring your vehicle in to your trusted Ford dealership for a closer look.
Brake Maintenance 101
Worn-out brakes can put you and your passengers in a very precarious situation when you need to make a sudden stop. Even brakes on cars that are only a few years old can show worrisome signs of wear and tear that might be putting you in danger. If you are getting your brakes checked periodically at your dealer’s service center, you probably don’t have anything to worry about. Our Ford-certified service experts know exactly what to look for to make sure your brakes are functioning optimally. If it has been a while since your brakes have been inspected (a year ago or longer), then having your brakes looked at should be a priority.
Getting a Checkup at Your Ford Dealership
During your Ford’s brake inspection (which can be done as a stand-alone service or as part of your bi-annual maintenance visit), our technicians will do a visual inspection of the entire braking system to look for obvious signs of damage. If the brake pads are worn down to less than a quarter inch, we will recommend that they be replaced immediately. This is also a good time to check your Ford’s rotors and brake fluid, which may need to be replaced. Ford recommends that brake fluid be drained and refreshed every two years, regardless of mileage.
Warning Signs that your Ford Needs a Brake Repair
If you’ve fallen behind on your maintenance visits, brake damage might sneak up on you with little warning. There are some tell-tale signs that your brakes are in need of help, and these signs should not be ignored! The most common symptom of brake trouble is a high-pitched screeching or grinding sound when you compress the brake pedal. This sound usually means that your brake pads are getting low, which can leave some metal exposed at the edge of the pads (hence the screeching noise). This type of sound can also indicate rotor damage, which is caused by frequently slamming on the brakes at higher speeds.
Brake Responsiveness
If you find that your brakes are either overly responsive or not responsive enough, then something is definitely “off” in the braking system. If your vehicle isn’t stopping quickly, this can indicate a leak, either in the brake hose or fluid reservoir. Alternately, if your brakes jerk your vehicle to a stop at the slightest touch, you might have rotors that are unevenly worn. The best way to keep your brakes in good shape is by sticking to a regular service schedule! If you have any concerns about your brakes, or simply want to schedule a maintenance checkup, call us today at Emerling Ford in Springville, NY.
