Here at Maiden Newton Garage we would advise that brake fluid changes are to be carried out every 2 years. Due to condensation, over time the brake fluid can become diluted with water and then the brake fluid will be less effective. We can carry out a fully comprehensive brake check which isn't carried out as part of the MOT.​​

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There are a number of signs which may indicate to get your brakes inspected quickly as possible.​​

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Grinding

When the friction material on brake pads is heavily worn, it can result in a grinding noise as the brake pad has worn down to the metal caliper. This will likely damage the brake disc also.

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Squeaking

There are many reasons why car brakes squeal. Squeaking could suggest that the brake calliper has stuck and the brake pad remains partially applied to the disc. However, some brake pads have wear indicators that squeak when worn to let the driver know the brakes need changing. Either way, you should get any squeaking checked out.

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Pulsating

If you feel a continuous pulsating from your car's brake pedal whenever you apply the brakes, the brake disc may have become warped due to excessive heat. Pulsation occurs because the brake disc is distorted and no longer provides a perfectly flat surface when the brake pad makes contact. If this only occurs when you apply the brakes firmly, it could just be the ABS kicking in. However, you should have pulsating brakes checked out if you are concerned or it happens regularly.

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Vehicle Pulling

If your car pulls to the left or right when you apply the brakes, you may have a sticking hydraulic or mechanical component such as a seized calliper. An inspection can identify the precise reason for the vehicle pulling to one side.

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Sponginess

Does the car brake pedal feel spongy and unresponsive? This is a sign that air has entered the brake's lines and is preventing the brake fluid from flowing through this system effectively.

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Soft Brake Pedal

If the car brake pedal is limp and goes all the way to the floor, this indicates a serious braking system fault which you should have inspected immediately. A brake pedal that is soft and can be applied all the way to the floor usually means the brake fluid is ineffective and needs replacing. However, there can be several other potential reasons such as a master cylinder fault.

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Brake Warning Light

If a brake warning light appears on your instrument panel either continuously or when you apply the brakes, it usually means the car brake fluid level is critically low. This could also indicate a leak in the brake hoses. 

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High Handbrake

If the handbrake is pulling up higher than it normally does, it may need adjusting. In modern cars, this is usually anything more than 6 to 8 clicks. If the handbrake lever reaches the end of its travel, it will fail the MOT, so it is worth getting it checked.

Regular brake checks are an important part of any vehicle's preventative maintenance plan. Car brake checks can identify a problem before it begins to impact your braking efficiency, thus providing an opportunity to restore the effectiveness of your vehicle's braking system to its intended operating performance.

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Old Brake Fluid

- If your brake fluid is over 2 years old, it may be losing its effectiveness. This is down to its hygroscopic properties that allow it to absorb moisture over time, affecting the properties of the fluid which negatively impacts braking ability. 

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Our full inspections look at the condition and wear on brake discs and pads, the condition of calipers/wheel cylinders, brake pipes (checks for leaks or corrosion), brake lights, handbrake cable and linkages, brake drums and fluids giving you a clear overview of your car’s braking capabilities.​

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We are able to offer (subject to availability) a courtesy car free of charge for the duration of work carried out. 

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Please contact us for further details or to book in your vehicle.​​

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