Brakes are your first line of defense on the road, ensuring you can stop safely whenever necessary. Knowing when you might need a brake repair at the Kia dealership is vitally important.
Unusual Noises
The most telltale sign that your brakes need attention is when they start making noise. If you hear a high-pitched squealing sound when you apply brakes, it’s likely the wear indicators are doing their job, telling you the brake pads are getting thin. If the sound escalates to grinding or growling, it suggests the pads might be completely worn down and the disc and caliper are rubbing together. Both scenarios signal it’s time for a brake check.
Feeling Vibrations
When your brakes are in top shape, pressing the brake pedal should feel slow and consistent. If you start feeling a vibration or pulsing sensation through the pedal or the steering wheel when you brake, it could indicate warped rotors. Warped rotors can significantly affect your Kia’s braking efficiency and should be inspected by a professional.
Brake Pedal Issues
Pay attention to how your brake pedal feels underfoot. A spongy or soft brake pedal, which requires more pressure than usual to engage the brakes, could point to air in the hydraulic system or a problem with the master cylinder. On the flip side, if the pedal feels too firm and requires more effort to press down, it might be a sign of a blockage or an issue with the brake hose.
Pulling to One Side
If your Kia starts pulling to one side when you brake, it’s not just annoying, it’s a potential safety hazard. This can happen for a few reasons, including uneven wear on the brake pads, a stuck caliper, or a collapsed brake hose. Any of these can cause uneven braking pressure and should be looked at during a brake inspection.
Longer Stopping Distances
Noticing that it’s taking longer to stop than it used to? That’s a red flag. Increased stopping distance can be caused by brake system issues like worn brake pads, low brake fluid, or compromised brake lines. This gradual change can sometimes be hard to notice day to day. If you suspect your brakes aren’t as responsive as they used to be, it’s worth getting them checked out.
Warning Lights
Your Kia is equipped with warning lights to alert you when something’s wrong, and that includes one for the brakes. If you see the brake system warning light on your dashboard, don’t ignore it. It could be alerting you to something like low brake fluid or a problem with the anti-lock brake system.
Ensuring your brakes are in good working order will keep your Kia stopping safely and reliably mile after mile. Call Kia of Coatesville in Coatesville, PA, to schedule your next brake inspection.
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Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.