My brakes feel weird… how do I know if they’re leaking?
Similar to gas mileage, the wear and tear on your brakes will vary depending on where and how you drive. And determining just how long they’ll last depends on several factors. If your brakes don’t feel quite right, you should always have them inspected. Here are three symptoms that you should look for if you suspect you have a brake fluid leak:
Warning Light
If your car is leaking fluid, the first symptom that you should notice is the brake warning light on your dashboard turning on. You may not feel any serious changes in your braking ability at this point, but this light is an early indication that something is wrong with your brakes. When if comes on, you should have your braking system inspected right away.
A “Mushy” Feel to the Pedal
If your brakes spring a leak and air gets mixed with the fluid in the brake lines, then the fluid won’t be able to flow correctly. As a result, your brakes may feel squishy or spongy when you press on the pedal.
The Pedal Hits the Floor
If air continues to get inside your brake lines while there is a leak, then it can also bring debris into the braking system, including condensation. If too much condensation forms, it can eventually cause the brake pedal to move all the way down to the floor when you press on it. After the leak is fixed, you need to “bleed the brakes,” replacing all the old braking fluid with new fluid.
At V&F
At V&F, our certified mechanics use the latest diagnostic equipment, and high-quality CARQUEST auto parts, to make sure we get the job done right. Plus, our auto repair services are backed by an industry-leading 3 year / 36,000 mile warranty on parts and labor. Call us today at (413) 314-2280 or schedule an appointment online.