Signs That Your Toyota Needs New Brakes in Burleson, TX

As simple as it is, the brake system on your Toyota vehicle is its most crucial safety feature. If there are signs that your car’s brakes need to be serviced, repaired, or replaced, you need to act fast before an accident occurs. But what are those signs you should look for? As it turns out, it’s not too difficult to find out if you should head to the shop.

Squealing noise while braking

Brake pads are designed with a small metal part that rubs against the calipers and makes a squealing sound when the pads are worn down. If the brakes consistently squeal when you depress the pedal, it’s a sign that it’s time to get the pads replaced with new ones. If the squealing only takes place for a brief time while the brakes are still getting warmed up or are wet, don’t worry as much about the sound.

Grinding noise while braking

If your Toyota vehicle’s brakes have been squealing for a while and suddenly begin grinding when you press the pedal, get your car to the service center at Family Toyota of Burleson as soon as possible.

A grinding noise is a sign that the brake pads have been completely worn down, leading to the calipers directly pressing against the brake disc. Not only does this greatly reduce braking performance, letting this happen for any period of time can damage the brake assembly and cost you a lot more money than just buying new pads.

Vibration in the steering wheel

If your steering wheel vibrates or shakes while braking, this is a sign that you should get the brakes inspected by a professional mechanic. It’s possible that the issue is caused by a suspension issue or worn wheel bearing, but the most likely culprit is unevenly worn brake pads, a misalignment in the brake rotors, or something related. You may also feel this as a vibration through the brake pedal itself.

Whatever the issue turns out to be, you should get your Toyota to the service center.

The car pulls to one side while braking

There are many reasons your car can pull to one side while braking, and most of them have to do with the brakes. It could be a stuck caliper, a collapsed brake hose, unevenly worn pads, or warped brake rotors caused by excessive heat. Erratic braking is obviously unsafe, so whatever the reason for it, make sure to get the brakes checked as soon as possible at Family Toyota of Burleson.

Soft or spongy brake pedal

Brake fade is a major safety issue that can be caused by various factors. One of the most common is repeated hard braking, such as when you’re riding down a steep hill or constantly slamming on the brake pedal in stop-and-go traffic.

This can cause the brake fluid to boil and then vaporize, leading to less hydraulic force and thus less braking power. This may also happen more gradually over time. If the brake pedal feels soft or spongy when you depress it, and you feel like the brakes aren’t reacting like they should, these are signs that your car needs more brake fluid.

Burning smell while braking

Occasionally, you may experience a burning smell while braking. This can safely be ignored if your brake pads are brand new and still being worn in; but in all other cases, it should be cause for alarm. Burning brakes can be caused by worn-out brake parts, overheating brakes, a seized brake caliper, pinched brake hose, or even a stuck wheel cylinder. If your Toyota SUV’s brakes are giving off a burning smell, don’t postpone your visit to the Family Toyota of Burleson service center.

Why you shouldn’t delay getting new brakes for your Toyota

It’s always a good idea to stay on top of car maintenance, but it’s even better when that maintenance addresses the brake system in your Toyota. Ignoring signs of brake issues can lead to brake failure, which is not something anyone wants to happen while driving a massive metal machine.

If you notice signs that your Toyota car’s brakes need attention, schedule a service appointment as soon as possible by calling Family Toyota of Burleson.