Three Common Causes of Car Braking System Malfunction
Are you experiencing problems with your car brakes? Brake failure is a serious problem that can lead to car accidents. That is why you should stay ahead of brake problems before they can cause collision damage to your car and injury to someone.
There are several causes of brake failure. Take a look at some common reasons why you may experience brake problems in your car.
1. Loss of Hydraulic Pressure in Your Brake System
Your brakes rely on hydraulic pressure to operate. A reduction in the hydraulic pressure in your braking system will affect the effectiveness of the brakes. If you notice the brake pedal going down too easily and giving a 'spongy' feel when you press it, you may have brake fluid leaks and/or air may have infiltrated the brake lines.
In order to fix the problem, you will need to get your brakes checked for brake fluid leaks so that any leaks found can be sealed. But before you can do that, the brakes will have to be 'bled' to get rid of any air that has infiltrated the brake lines.
2. Presence of Water in the Brake Fluid
Has water infiltrated your brake system? When water mixes with the brake fluid flowing in your brake lines, it can cause brake failure.
Brake fluid that is contaminated with water boils more easily under high temperatures, thus diminishing the strength of your brake fluid column. This, in turn, reduces your car's braking ability and puts you, your passengers, and other motorists in harm's way.
The best way to remove water from your braking system is to replace the old, contaminated brake fluid with the proper brake fluid for your car.
3. Corrosion on Brakes
Rust is one of the greatest enemies of the metallic components of your braking system. When internal corrosion begins to occur on your brakes, brake fluid may become contaminated and gradually become ineffective. In severe cases, it may lead to brake fluid leaks. Both ineffective fluid and fluid leaks can hurt your car's braking power.
While there are chemical treatments for rust, welding or parts-replacement may be needed in cases where rust has eaten at large sections of the metal.
Car repair is a normal part of car ownership. If you experience any problem with your braking system, get in touch with a car mechanic to resolve the problem and get your car running safely and properly again.
