Does Your Kia Need a Brake Repair?

The most important safety feature in your Kia is the brakes. But over time, even the most durable braking mechanisms can begin to wear down. If you ever notice any of the following five indicators of trouble, it’s time to visit your local Kia dealer for prompt brake repair.

Brake Pads Squealing

Every time you press the brake pedal, the brake pads clamp onto the rotor discs, slowing your vehicle. But each time pads clamp the rotors, all the enormous friction and heat created shears away a little more of the brake pad’s upper friction layer.

Almost all brake pads are designed to emit a noticeable squeaking or squealing sound when this upper friction layer wears down to dangerous levels. So if you start hearing a high-pitched sound whenever you brake, it’s probably time for new brake pads.

Brake Pedal Vibrating

Rotor discs can occasionally become warped, scored, or otherwise damaged. When this happens, you’ll start to feel strange vibrations through your foot on the brake pedal, and sometimes through the steering wheel as well. You’ll need to have the damaged rotor resurfaced, which makes the rotor smooth and effective again. Rotor discs damaged or warped too severely will need to be replaced.

Brake Pedal Failing

The most common cause of rotors getting damaged is overheating from overuse. When rotors start to overheat, not only can they become damaged, but they can also lose friction. With diminished friction between pads and rotor, your brakes will start to feel sluggish and ineffective.

If your brakes ever begin to feel sluggish, it’s best to pull over and allow your brakes to cool. When you start driving again, if the problem persists, have a technician take a look. Overheating most often occurs in heavy stop-and-go traffic, on steep hilly roads, and when carrying heavy loads or towing a trailer.

Brake Fluid Leaking

If you ever find a yellow or brown liquid pooling under your parked car, then your brake fluid might be leaking. This fluid is very important as it keeps the hydraulic pressure of your brake lines high.

If brake fluid leaks, hydraulic pressure is lost, and your foot on the pedal will no longer be activating the brakes as well. For this reason, it’s unwise to drive with a brake fluid leak. If the leak can’t be repaired on the spot, your car will need to be towed to the nearest mechanic.

Brake Light Blinking

Your Kia has a brake warning light on the instrument panel. This light will turn on whenever your emergency brake is on, and also when the car’s in-built sensors detect a problem with the brakes. So if you see this light come on, provided that your emergency brake is off, pay heed and have a trusted technician take a look right away.

Have experienced professionals inspect and repair your brakes today at Superior Motors Kia. We’re a locally trusted dealership that serves Orangeburg and the surrounding area with consistently outstanding vehicles and customer service, whatever your needs might be.

image courtesy of pexels.com

Tags: Auto Maintenance, Auto Repair, Car Repair, Kia Maintenance, Kia Repair
Posted in Car Tips and Tricks, Orangeburg Kia Service, Superior Kia Service, Vehicle Safety Tips | No Comments »