When it comes to road safety, nothing’s more important than your brakes. Proper brake service requires a two-pronged approach: regular inspections and a quick response to any sign of wear and tear. Never hesitate to visit your trusted VW dealer in Weatherford for help if you suspect any of the following issues with your brakes.
Volkswagen Brake Service Guide
Notice Any Reduction in Stopping Power
If you ever suspect that your car is taking longer to stop when you brake, pull over safely and contact a trusted technician. It’s never a good idea to continue driving with weakened brakes.
Reduced stopping power might result from overheating. If you’ve been driving in heavy stop-and-go traffic or along steep mountainous roads, prolonged braking with little rest may have caused your brake pads and rotors to overheat, which can sometimes reduce friction and brake force. Alternatively, you might have a brake fluid leak. This would make the pedal feel spongy underfoot and might leave a puddle of transparent yellow fluid under your car.
Pay Attention to How Your Brakes Sound
Strange noises are usually a less urgent indication of a problem. A high-pitched squealing sound can point to a worn-out brake pad that needs to be replaced soon. Metallic grinding sounds might indicate something trapped in the caliper or a completely finished brake pad that’s now damaging the rotor disc.
Vibrations Indicate Trouble With a Rotor
When very old or overheating, rotor discs can start to warp out of shape. This often leads to rhythmic vibrations, which you might feel through the brake pedal. A damaged rotor can occasionally be corrected with a resurfacing process, but it may also need to go.
Is Your Vehicle Pulling to One Side?
Brake problems will usually develop on just one side of the vehicle. This weakens the stopping power on that side and can cause the car to pull slightly toward the other side when you brake. If you notice veering, have the problem resolved right away as this lopsided pulling hampers your car’s handling.
Watch Out for the Brake Warning Light
Fortunately, the sophisticated sensors in your VW will usually detect break trouble before you do. If the brake warning light appears on your dashboard, have your brakes inspected without delay.
Visit Your Local VW Dealer for Brake Inspections
Most drivers should have their brakes examined by a professional at least twice a year. You can have these inspections carried out at your local dealership.
When our experienced technicians remove and inspect each brake component, they’ll find and fix any nascent faults. They can also let you know how much longer your brake pads and rotors are likely to last.
Visit SouthWest VW Weatherford in Weatherford, TX, to have your brakes inspected today. We’re a local full-service dealership offering a broad range of cars, deals, financing arrangements, and vehicle maintenance services.
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