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Purchased an Older Car? Check for These 2 Brake Problems

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If you just purchased an older car you need to be aware of problems, it may have. This will help you keep your car in good shape and help it last longer. One thing you need to watch for is problems with your brakes.  If you notice problems and get them repaired, this can save you a lot of money as damage will only get worse. 

1. Deteriorating Brake Lines

Over time, deterioration on brake lines will cause brake fluid to leak. If you continue driving your car the brake fluid will become depleted. Brake lines can also collapse in different areas, which means the line is pinched. When this happens, brake fluid cannot flow through the brake line and you'll notice that your car does not stop immediately when you press your brake. Reduced fluid can also cause your car to pull to one side. 

In short, when you step on the brake pedal, the brake fluid is pressured and then pushed through the brake lines. The fluid flows to the brakes on your car. If the fluid does not flow to the brakes at all, your brakes would not work and allow your car to stop.

2. Brake Pads

It is easy to notice problems with your brake pads because your car will make loud sounds when you press on the brake pedal, such as squealing, grinding, and screeching. When you press on your brake pedal, the first component that comes in contact with your brake rotors is the brake pads. The pads are flat and round and look shiny when they are in good condition. As you use your car, pressure is applied onto the brake pads. Over time, this pressure causes the brake pads to wear away a little at a time and eventually wear away completely. The next component under the brake pads is the brake rotors. When the brake pads are not there, the pressure is applied to the rotor instead of the pads. This is why you hear so much noise when driving your car. 

If you continue to drive your car without brake pads the rotors will be damaged. This will result in you having to have the pads and the rotors replaced, which is much more expensive than only replacing the brake pads. 

For more information about maintaining or repairing your brakes, contact services such as Williams Oil Filter Service Co.


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