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When to have
your brakes serviced - Introduction
The red "BRAKE" lamp on the dash lights up to tell you the park brake is on
and to warn of
possible failures. If the lamp is lit when driving, the park brakes may be
dragging or there may be even more serious problems such as loss of some of
the brakes on the vehicle. Never ignore a red warning lamp.
Vehicles with antilock brake systems have an amber lamp marked "ABS" or
"ANTI-LOCK" that lights when you first turn on the ignition key and when the
ABS computer detects a malfunction. If the ABS lamp is lit when driving, the
computer has probably shut down the system. Drive as though you do not have
ABS and have the system serviced.
Audible warnings often indicate the need for parts replacement. A grinding
sound usually is a call for inspection or re placement. Many disc brakes
also have wear indicators that squeal when re placement is needed.
Last but not least, there is the overall "feel" of a good brake system. The
pedal should feel firm and the vehicle should stop straight and smooth.
Severe chatter, a pull to one side or a soft or spongy pedal usually means
the brake system is calling for immediate attention.
The Signals Know your vehicle's brake system and its warnings. When to have
your brakes serviced or 1 A qualified technician will inspect and service
these parts of your brake system
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