Depending on the size of your diesel truck, you should have the brakes inspected every 12,000 miles at a maximum. Village Diesel Works can inspect your brake system and service or repair it if necessary. If you notice any of the problems listed below, your brakes are overdue for service.
Brake Warning Light
One of the first things that will happen if your brake system is going bad is the Brake light will turn on and refuse to turn off. If your diesel truck is equipped with an anti-lock brake system, you may also end up with an illuminated ABS light on the dashboard.
Leaking Brake Fluid
Another sign that the brakes are overdue for service is fluid spots on the garage floor. Brake fluid is generally brown in color but it can also be red. If you see spots of either color behind the wheels, your brake system is leaking and needs to be serviced right away.
Low Pedal Resistance
Changes in the resistance that the brake pedal gives your foot can also indicate a problem with the brake system. Generally, if the pedal feels soft or gives in spurts, you’ve got air in the brake lines. This can also signal a problem with the master cylinder.
Overheating Brakes
Overheating brakes will smell hot and squeal. Specifically, if the brakes are so hot that the brake fluid is boiling, you will smell hot chemicals. The brake pads and rotors also glaze when the brakes overheat and this causes an odor of burning carpet.
Pulling to the Side
Your calipers may need to be replaced if your diesel truck pulls to the side when you apply the brakes. This is generally a sign that one of the calipers is stuck and cannot release itself. Replacing the faulty caliper will resolve the problem.
Strange Brake Noises
If you hear strange noises when you apply your diesel truck’s brakes, they need to be serviced immediately. For example, as we mentioned above, squealing sounds could be a sign that the brakes are overheating. You shouldn’t hear grinding or scraping, either.
Wobbling While Braking
Finally, if your diesel truck wobbles when you apply the brakes, you may need to have the rotor surfaces recut. This can also be a sign that a small piece of road debris is stuck in one of the brake calipers.
Village Diesel Works is the best auto service shop in Woodbury, MN, and the best auto service shop in Roseville, MN, so call the shop closest to you today if you need to schedule a brake inspection for your diesel truck.