Jul 8, 2020

Your brakes are the last stop between you, your vehicle, and a potential inconvenience at best — and a disaster at worst. On a day-to-day basis, we take them for granted. We hit the pedal, the vehicle slows down and comes to a stop…(hopefully). Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA are well-versed in the signs of weakening brakes and is here to share their expert tips in knowing when to get yours looked at.

Warning Sign #1: Brakes Are Hard to Push Down

If your brakes are harder to “press” than normal, it could be an issue with the vacuum hose, worn brake pads, a caliper that’s seizing up, or a power system that’s gone bad.

Warning Sign #2: “Mushy” Brakes

If your brakes feel squishy or mushy, and you have to push harder than normal to bring your vehicle to a stop, it could be an indicator of several things. Your brake fluid could be leaking (or low). A brake line could have blown, or a wheel bearing could be off. There’s another possible culprit: your master cylinder may need a look-see.

Warning Sign #3: The Brakes Don’t Disengage When You Release

You’ve hit the brakes, however, they don’t quite “release” when you’re done. This could be a problem related to a clog in the master cylinder, a pinched brake line, or a “seized” caliper. It could also relate to your parking brake.

Warning Sign #4: Your Brake Pedal Goes All the Way to the Floor

That’s never a good feeling. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA notes that this is likely an issue with brake pressure, possibly with a leak or blown seal. We can find the problem and fix it.

Warning Sign #5: Your Vehicle Shakes or Vibrates When You Apply the Brakes

Yeah, not a good feeling when you hit the brakes and your vehicle starts to “shimmy.” Generally, this indicates rotor problems. They could be warped for some reason, or have a build-up issue. Whatever the reason, Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA stands ready to sort out whatever is happening with your brakes – and quickly fix any problems.

Look, brakes are essential. If you’ve picked up on any issues based on our tips, get your vehicle into the service experts at Peruzzi Toyota and let us handle them!