Safe Brakes
Brakes are one of the most basic and important safety features of your car. A healthy brake system is the thing between you and a costly—or fatal—accident. When should you get your brakes checked by a mechanic? What should you do if you experience brake failure?
You may already consider your car and extension of yourself. Because of this, you may know by feeling and listening to your vehicle when something is awry. However, it is easy to mistake the creaks or vibrations for the simple aging of the vehicle. Grinding noises can be an indication that your brakes need a change. Accompanying this may be metal flakes on your tires that the brakes are kicking back. If you hear grinding or see metal flakes, it’s time for your car to go into the shop. In cars with ABS, or automatic braking system, the indicator light may illuminate when there is excessive buildup of metal flakes.
Break wear may be indicated by a shuddering at the front of the vehicle, a pull to the right or the left, difficulty stopping the car, or the need to use a pumping action when braking. Changes in the break pedal—a feeling of mushiness or sponginess—may also be warning signs of brake wear.
The brake fluid needs to be changed regularly to prevent dangerous situations. When brake fluid absorbs moisture, it becomes contaminated. When your car goes in for a check-up, don’t merely request that the brake fluid be topped off. Every two years, your brake fluid should be changed.
If you experience brake failure, don’t panic. Allow your car to slow down on its own and pull to the side of the road or berm.. Use your directional signal and hazard lights so that other drivers know which way you are going and that you could be experiencing a problem. In a manual car, shift to a lower gear. When you are off the roadway, put the car in neutral and gradually pull the emergency (or parking) break, until the car comes to a stop. If there is a curb, you can direct your car along the curb; the friction will help the car stop and guide it safely to an area where you can call for or signal for help. Even if you must wait for help, do not drive your car without brakes—this will endanger you and other drivers.
As a preventative measure, get your breaks looked at least once a year. Remember, it isn’t just the brakes themselves that may be old or worn: your mechanic should inspect at brake warning lights, brake fluid level, condition of hose and brake lines, and rotor thickness. It doesn’t matter if you don’t know anything about cars—your mechanic does, and he or she will usually meet your request if you know what to ask for. You will learn something in the process and be able to feel more secure knowing that the brake inspection has been thorough