Is your car experiencing dragging brakes? This can be a frightening ordeal especially in the Seattle area. This concern occurs when the brakes remain partially applied even when your foot is not exerting any pressure on the pedal. We’ll explain the causes and what you can do about it.
Common Causes of Dragging Brakes
In some cases, brake drag occurs when the driver does not completely take the foot off the brake. If you still experience dragging when your foot is off the pedal, then you may have a worn or faulty spring on a brake’s drum or possibly a sticking brake caliper piston on newer vehicles.
Contaminated brake fluid is another possibility. Fluid becomes contaminated due to atmospheric exposure from small cracks around the seals and brake hoses. The brake fluid eventually breaks down and happens a lot here in Seattle, affecting its ability to lubricate the parts. Lack of lubrication leads to corrosion of vital parts, such as the mounting pins and bushing, and internally on brake calipers. This end result is a brake more susceptible to dragging.
Though less common, dragging brakes may also be the result of overextended self-adjusters or frozen emergency brake cables. With so many possibilities it's best to schedule a complete brake inspection at least once a year in Seattle.
Consequences of Dragging Brakes
Without repairs, dragging brakes can lead to premature rotor and brake pad wear. It may also overheat the drums and linings. On top of that, you’ll also suffer at the pump, as dragging means reduced fuel efficiency.
How to Prevent Dragging Brakes
Follow the vehicle’s user manual for scheduled maintenance. We also recommend replacing the brake fluid every two years in Seattle. We must point out that contaminated brake fluid also reduces the car’s ability to come to a sudden stop or brake at a steep descent.
We’ll Examine Your Brakes
Brake dragging is not normal and requires immediate attention from a professional mechanic. Repeated occurrence will slowly destroy vital parts and reduce performance. Bring your car to Chuck’s Auto Repair if you notice even minor brake dragging.
Brake Repairs and Brake Fluid Replacement
Serving Motorists of the Seattle Area and Greater Puget Sound
