Recognize 4 Common Problems with Car Brakes and How to Overcome Them

Problems with car brakes often make drivers anxious. Especially since the braking system is the most important component in a vehicle, it is natural for you to always feel worried about brakes that do not work properly.

You may not be interested in fixing it yourself or not interested in technical matters, but at least having a little understanding will help you when you get to the workshop or even when your vehicle experiences problems.

It's not just about surrendering to the mechanic's decision and merely accepting their decision to fix our vehicle.

Here are common problems that occur with car brakes, namely:

1. Pedal Too Light and Deep

A brake pedal that lacks feedback and must be pressed too deeply is a major issue with brakes. Thus, when the vehicle goes down a slope, even if you press the brake pedal deeply, the car will still slide.

This problem is usually caused by a leak in the braking system, namely a leaking master cylinder internal or external. The only recommended fix is to replace the master cylinder with a new one. Don't take risks, as this brake pedal is the most important component in your car.

2. Car Moves to One Side

A car that moves to one side due to braking is very annoying and also dangerous. This braking problem can be caused by several things, but the most common cause is a frozen caliper.

Over time, the caliper can gradually freeze, a process that goes unnoticed for a long time. This condition also causes brake fluid not to flow properly, generally caused by dust sticking to the caliper piston. To fix this issue, you need to replace the caliper with a new one.

Another possibility is damage to the valve or master cylinder that is not installed correctly. This condition is relatively rare but should not be ignored.

For safety reasons, the car's braking system is designed diagonally (crosswise). The left rear brake works with the right front brake, while the right rear brake works with the left front brake.

This diagonal system process is what causes the car to move to one side when the brakes are malfunctioning. If this is the cause, immediately replace the damaged component, and the symptoms will be resolved.

3. Steering Vibrates During Braking

Conditions like this are a very common braking problem in all models and appearances of cars, usually the vibrations will be more pronounced when you accelerate the vehicle at high speeds.

This condition may be caused by uneven discs due to the car not being used for a long time. Residual rainwater or high humidity causes rust and corrosion on the car's discs.

To address this issue should not be difficult. If the disc is still thick enough, it can be ground down to restore its surface. However, if the disc feels thin, it must be replaced with a new one.

4. Entire Car Vibrates During Braking

If your entire car vibrates during braking, the problem may originate from the rear brakes. To test if the rear brakes are indeed the issue, use the handbrake while the car is moving at low speed.

However, if the car vibrates when the handbrake is activated, then it is clear that there is a problem with your car's rear brakes.

This method of problem detection only applies if your car's rear brakes still use the drum type. If your car has already switched to disc brakes at the rear without technical knowledge, it is better to contact a workshop directly to avoid further damage to the car.

By understanding the common mistakes that occur with car brakes, you can help maintain your beloved car for a long lifespan.

So, don't be lazy to regularly check your car's braking system, to make driving more comfortable and safe wherever the destination.

Read also: Keeping the Handbrake Working Well