3 Signs Your Ford Needs a Brake Repair

1. Signs Your Ford Needs a Brake Repair – Screeching or Scraping

One potential sign you need a brake repair is the noise that comes from a worn-down brake pad, a critical component of disc brake systems. When you press the brake pedal, these pads are squeezed against the disc brake rotors. This friction helps to slow down your vehicle and, as you can imagine, they wear down faster if you’re braking more frequently.

Most brake pads feature built-in wear indicators that rub against the rotor when the brake pad reaches its minimum thickness. This annoying sound is a reminder to get your brake pads replaced. Ignoring it can compromise braking performance.

2. Softer or Harder Brake Pedal Than Usual

When you press your foot down on the brake pedal, you should feel some resistance. This resistance comes from the brake booster, which amplifies the pressure you apply to the pedal. The result is that there is increased mechanical force that is converted into hydraulic pressure in the brake lines.

If the brake pedal feels softer or depresses farther than normal before the brake is engaged, you may have an issue with one of these parts. If you must apply extra force to push the pedal down, you may have an issue specifically with the brake booster. A softer or harder brake pedal can greatly affect your ability to brake properly.

3. There’s Brake Fluid Leaking from Your Vehicle

Brake fluid is the key ingredient in vehicle braking systems, as it amplifies and transmits force across components. Without sufficient braking fluid, your braking system would have less hydraulic pressure and you have less braking power.

Leaks often happen due to deteriorating seals on components such as the master cylinder. If you see puddles of liquid near your wheels or under the brake pedal area, and it’s oily or yellow, it’s likely that there is a leak in the braking system. Another sign is a softer or spongy pedal, as there’s less brake fluid to help apply resistance.

How Your Ford Dealership Can Help You

If your vehicle is experiencing one or more of the signs listed above, it’s time to get its brakes checked. Your Ford dealer is your one-stop for all of your car maintenance needs. Our trained specialists can check your brakes, replace components with genuine OEM parts, and give advice on how to monitor and manage your vehicle’s braking system.

It’s important to monitor your vehicle’s braking performance and to have your local dealer on speed dial when it’s time for maintenance or repairs. Contact us at Valu Ford and Chrysler in Morris, MN to schedule your brake inspection today.

Tags: Brakes, Ford, maintenance, repair, service, tips, Tricks
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