Restoring Cars: Fixing Up an Old Clunker

If it has been quite a while since the last time you had your brakes replaced, you may be wondering whether it is time to have them checked. Here are a few indications that you should take your care to an automotive repair shop to have your brakes serviced:

Noisy Brakes

If you can hear your brakes when you press your brake pedal, it is time to have them checked. As your brake pads wear down, they eventually expose the metal plate that lies beneath the padding material. When this metal comes in contact with the metal of your rotors, the brakes emit a grinding or screeching sound. 

If the pads are not changed in a timely manner, the metal of the pads will damage your rotors, and your brake repair may be more expensive. Damaged rotors can sometimes be smoothed or resurfaced. However, if the damage is too extensive or if your rotors are already thin, they become irreparable and have to be replaced along with your brake pads.

Warning Lights

On the panel of your dashboard, there are multiple warning lights that may be displayed when a component of your car is malfunctioning or requires attention. One of these lights is generally designated for your brake fluid level. If your fluid falls below a recommended level, the indicator light alerts you that fluid needs to be added. 

If you ignore the light, you may not have enough brake fluid in your vehicle to help your car stop properly. Brake fluid is responsible for transferring the force needed to stop your car. If you have too little fluid, your brakes will not operate efficiently.

Mushy Brake Pedal

In addition to a warning light, if you have too little brake fluid in your car, you may notice that your brake pedal must be depressed beyond its normal level to stop your car. 

No Recollection of the Last Time Your Brakes Were Serviced

If you can't remember the last time your brakes were serviced, it is probably time to take your car to a mechanic. Even if your brakes are not making noises when you press the brake pedal, your brake fluid should be replaced at least every two years. 

As your brake fluid sits, it absorbs moisture. This elevated water content lowers the boiling point of the brake fluid and makes it less effective. When a liquid boils, it becomes a gas, and brake fluid is not effective in a gaseous state. 

If you have not had your brakes serviced recently, take them to an brake service shop to have them checked.