BRAKES
STOPPING POWER MATTERS.
Pads • Discs • Inspection • Repairs
STOPPING POWER MATTERS.
Pads • Discs • Inspection • Repairs
In a typical disc-brake setup, brake pads clamp against the rotating brake discs to slow the vehicle. Pads are designed to wear over time, while discs can also become worn, corroded, scored or damaged.
Unusual noises when braking.
Judder through the pedal or steering wheel.
Vehicle pulls to one side when braking.
The car doesn't brake as expected
Brake warning displayed.
Unusual softness, hardness or travel.
Brakes are part of the MOT inspection, including components such as pads/linings, discs/drums, hoses, pipes, callipers and the operation of the braking system.
MOT COMING UP?
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY BRAKE PADS NEED REPLACING?
There isn't one set mileage at which brake pads need replacing. How quickly they wear depends on the vehicle, driving style, road conditions and how the car is used.
Signs that your brakes may need attention can include unusual noises, changes in braking feel, a warning light or reduced braking performance.
If something doesn't feel right, it's best to have the brakes checked.
WHY ARE MY BRAKES SQUEAKING?
Brake squeal can have several causes and doesn't automatically mean that the brake pads need replacing.
It can be caused by condition of the pads or discs, contamination, corrosion or other factors. An inspection is the best way to determine what's causing the noise.
WHAT DOES A GRINDING NOISE WHEN BRAKING MEAN?
Grinding when braking should not be ignored. It can indicate significant wear or another problem within the braking system.
If your brakes are grinding, contact us and have the vehicle checked as soon as possible.
WHAT DOES THE BRAKE WARNING LIGHT MEAN?
The meaning depends on the vehicle and which warning light is displayed. It could relate to the parking brake, brake fluid level, brake pad wear or another braking-system issue.
Check your vehicle handbook and don't ignore a brake warning light. If you're unsure what it means, contact us for advice.
CAN WORN BRAKES CAUSE AN MOT FAILURE?
Yes. The braking system forms an important part of the MOT inpection.
Problems with braking performance or the condition of certain braking components can result in an MOT defect or failure.
Remember: passing an MOT doesn't mean your brakes won't require maintenance before the next MOT.
IS IT SAFE TO DRIVE IF MY BRAKES DON'T FEEL RIGHT?
Changes in braking performance should be taken seriously.
If braking performance is significantly reduced, the pedal behaves unusually, you hear severe grinding, or you otherwise believe the vehicle may be unsafe, don't continue driving it simply to get it to the garage.
Contact Harding Motors and we can advise you on the safest next step.
DON'T TAKE CHANCES WITH YOUR STOPPING POWER.
Squeaking, grinding, vibration, warning lights or simply a change in how your brakes feel - let us take a look.