How to Check if There Are Problems with the Brakes?

[Amara]

Methods to check if there are problems with the brakes: 1. Brake pedal vibration: This is caused by excessive wear or unevenness of the brake discs, requiring resurfacing or replacement at a 4S shop or auto repair shop; 2. Steering wheel deflection when braking with hands off: This indicates uneven force distribution between the left and right brake calipers on the brake pads; 3. Soft brakes upon starting the car, with normal braking force appearing after a while: Disc brakes convert kinetic energy into heat through friction between the brake pads and discs, driven by hydraulic pressure from the engine. If this occurs, it may indicate a loss of pressure in the transmission lines, requiring immediate inspection; 4. Perceived reduction in braking performance: The main components affecting braking performance are the master cylinder and wheel cylinders. Issues such as pump failure, oil leakage, worn brake pads or discs, or air entering the brake lines can cause the brakes to feel soft or even fail. If the brake pedal height slightly increases and feels elastic during consecutive braking, it suggests air has entered the brake lines.

[McIsabela]

When it comes to checking brake issues, as an ordinary car owner, I often perform inspections myself. First, listen for sounds when braking: sharp scraping noises or low humming could indicate worn brake pads or foreign objects stuck in them. Then, check if the brake warning light on the dashboard is illuminated. After parking, crouch down and look through the wheel rim gaps to inspect the brake pad thickness—if they're as thin as a sheet of paper, they need replacing. Feel the brake pedal: if it's too soft with excessive travel or too hard to press, it might be due to hydraulic system leaks or air ingress. It's best to find a safe open area to test brake performance—accelerate to low speed and perform an emergency stop to see if the car stops quickly and without pulling to one side. If you notice these issues, don't risk driving further; head to a repair shop immediately. Remember, clean the wheel rim dust during regular car washes to reduce brake dust buildup, which can help prevent problems.

[VanessaAnn]

As a mechanic with over a decade of experience, checking brakes is fundamental. Before starting, ensure the vehicle is safely parked. Use a flashlight to inspect the brake pads—if they're less than 3mm thick, they need replacement. Listen for scratching or unusual noises when the brake disc rotates, indicating uneven wear. Check the brake fluid reservoir level is between the min-max lines; a low level may indicate a leak, requiring inspection of the pipe seals. Look for oil stains or wear marks on the inner side of the wheel hub, and use professional measuring tools for more accurate pad thickness readings. During testing, press the pedal lightly; the action should be smooth without delay. Common issues like brake noise or uneven braking often stem from daily neglect. It's best to conduct a comprehensive inspection every six months to avoid costly and dangerous major repairs. Always wear gloves when working and avoid hot components to prevent burns.

[BryceAnn]

Brake issues are directly related to safe driving, and I believe everyone should take them seriously. Simple self-checks include observing dashboard warning lights and listening for abnormal brake noises, such as squeaking indicating pad wear. Pay attention to whether the pedal sinks abnormally; if the travel is too long or feels empty, be immediately alert. Regularly check the brake fluid level, as it easily absorbs moisture leading to performance degradation. If any problem is detected, immediately slow down, pull over safely, and call for a tow to a repair shop—don't push through. Develop a daily habit of testing brake response before each drive and maintain a safe following distance to prevent rear-end collisions. Safety is no small matter; addressing minor faults promptly can prevent major accidents. Valuing life starts with paying attention to your brakes.