regular maintenance checks for your car

It is important to make sure that you are having your automobile's brakes inspected about twice a year. However, there may be instances between those times that require you to call and set up an appointment for a brake inspection. To help you know more about when you should have your brakes inspected, you will want to review the following information:

You Are Hearing Odd Sounds

There are a lot of vehicles that are equipped with sensors that will give a screeching sound when the brake pads are wearing thin. If you drive on the bad brakes for too long, you might find yourself noticing a harsh grinding sound whenever you step on the brake pedal. That grinding sound is an indicator that the brake pads are now simply gone and there is metal rubbing on metal. This could damage the rotors so it is best to stop driving the vehicle around until the new brakes are put on. During the brake inspection, your mechanic will be able to determine if the rotors have been damaged to where they need to be replaced.

The Vehicle Pulls To One Side

A lot of people will automatically associate the pulling to one side as being an issue with the alignment. While that can certainly cause the pulling to one side, it's not the only thing that can do that. If the caliper in the brake system gets stuck, it will tend to cause the vehicle to pull in a certain direction. When you get your vehicle to the shop, they can complete a brake inspection to determine the cause of the pulling and to make sure that all of the brakes are in good shape.

The Brake Pedal Is Vibrating

If you go to push down on the brake pedal and you can feel a pulsating or vibration coming through it, then it is important to get your vehicle to a mechanic's shop. There is either a problem with the brake pads themselves or with the rotors. Some rotors will become warped after being put through strenuous braking over a long period of time. You may need new brake pads and new rotors.

Just make sure that you are taking your vehicle to a mechanic that you trust. Explain all of the problems that you have been experiencing so they have a good idea of what to look for. The sooner you call for an appointment, the sooner you will be able to drive safely again.

For more information on brake inspection, contact a professional near you.