How to Tell When Your Toyota Needs a Brake Repair

As a basic safety function, your brakes are one of the most important parts of your Toyota. When you take good care of your brakes, you can enjoy optimal vehicle control and performance. But how do you know when you should take your vehicle in for brake repair at your local Toyota dealer?

While your owner manual will give you a good idea of how often you should have your brakes serviced, there may be signs that indicate your brakes need immediate attention. From sound to visual cues, here are the most common signs of brake issues:

Abnormal Brake Sounds

When your brakes function well, they should be silent. One of the earliest and most obvious indicators that you may be encountering brake issues is abnormal brake sounds. If you hear grinding or squealing when you apply your brakes, this is usually a sign that your brake pad has worn down. It’s common for brakes to make abnormal noises when the pad thickness is nearing three millimeters or less.

More Time to Engage Brakes

Well-functioning brakes respond very quickly when they are engaged. However, when the brake pads on a vehicle are worn thin, it often takes longer to make a complete stop. Some drivers may even notice that applying the brakes requires the pedal to be pushed all the way down. If you notice that you need to increase your stopping distance when you’re driving, it’s best to schedule brake maintenance soon.

Pulling or Vibrating Brakes

Another sign your braking system may be in critical condition is if you experience pulling or vibrating brakes when stopping. Vibration may or may not be accompanied by noises. When the braking system on your vehicle is compromised, the vehicle will likely pull to the left or right when brakes are fully engaged. This generally indicates that the brake pads are wearing down unevenly.

Excessive Dust or Oil on Brakes

Finally, you may see excessive dust on your wheels or oily spots behind the tires when the vehicle is parked. Excessive dust on your wheels may be a sign that the brake pads are shedding too quickly. Oily spots behind your tires, on the other hand, may be an indication that there is a leak in the brake line, which needs to be fixed immediately.

Why Should You Have Regular Brake Service At a Toyota Dealer?

When it’s time to have your brakes replaced or repaired, it’s best to go to a Toyota service center. Not only will you have the convenience of scheduling your maintenance, but your vehicle will also benefit from genuine Toyota brakes. Toyota uses ceramic brake pads that reduce heat, noise, and brake dust, and Toyota-trained technicians will ensure your brakes are installed correctly.

The brakes on your Toyota are essential for the safe function of your vehicle, so if you notice any obvious signs of brake issues, you should schedule maintenance right away. Contact Ed Martin Toyota in Noblesville, IN to schedule service for your brakes today.

image courtesy of pexels.com

Tags: Auto Maintenance, Auto Service, Brake Repair, Car Brakes, Car Repair, In, Indiana, indy, noblesville
Posted in Ed Martin Toyota Service, Noblesville Toyota Service, Noblesville Used Cars | No Comments »