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Brakes play an undeniably important role in your vehicle’s performance, ensuring drivers’ safety on the road ahead. It’s essential that your car is not only able to slow down smoothly but stop on a dime to avoid a potential collision. more But if stopping is accompanied by squeaking, it’s time to schedule service. Here at Mike Reichenbach Volkswagen, our certified technicians will help diagnose any brake problems – and get your vehicle repaired and ready to roll in no time at all! Schedule an appointment at our Service Center today! Understanding the Signs A minor issue that could be easily resolved can cause major problems if left unaddressed. In fact, delaying service may result in brake failure or permanent damage to your brake system, so it’s crucial to know what to watch for! Schedule brake service if you notice the following: Squeaking, hissing, or grinding noises when you brake A burning smell coming from the tires Steering wheel vibrations when applying the brakes Fluid leak on or near the wheels Dashboard brake light illuminated Top 5 Reasons for Brakes Grinding or Squealing Reason #1: Debris in the brake system When sand, dust or debris collect on the brake pads or brake rotors, you may notice strange sounds when you push the brake pedal. Drivers who routinely traverse unpaved roads or rugged terrain are most likely to experience this. Cleaning the surface of brake pads or rotors may be the simple solution! Reason #2: Brake pad wear Because they wear out over time, brake pad replacement is a part of standard maintenance. If you notice your brakes squealing, this may indicate that the pads have reached their minimum thickness – and that it’s time to give our Service Center a call! Reason #3: Overnight weather conditions A squealing or grinding sound first thing in the morning is completely normal, with rainy or humid conditions overnight often leaving moisture behind. A thin layer of rust on the brake rotors is the result, but it’ll likely resolve itself after a day of normal driving. Reason #4: Brake pad material There are three types of brake pads: organic, semi-metallic and ceramic. The higher the metal content, the more likely you will hear your brakes grinding or squealing on occasion. As the brake pad wears down, the strange noise should stop. Reason #5: Aggressive driving habits Drivers who frequently slam on their vehicle’s brakes may need brake repairs more often. Rapid braking generates heat, which over time, causes a film to form over the brake pads. This barrier between contact points reduces the amount of friction – which is needed to make your vehicle stop! Schedule Brake Service at Mike Reichenbach Volkswagen of Florence! Brake system maintenance is a vital part of your car’s care, and our certified technicians make it easier than ever! We provide the comprehensive services needed to keep your vehicle running right – right here at our on-site Volkswagen Service Center. If you hear your brakes squeaking or notice any of the warning signs detailed above, schedule brake service today!