In your vehicle, there is no system more critical to your safety than your brakes. Even if your daily commute has been uneventful for years, you just never know when you’ll encounter a reckless driver or other sudden hazard that requires you to stop quickly. This makes it important to get to the shop when you first suspect that a brake problem is present. At Lee Hill Auto Service, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Fredericksburg, VA area. Our local mechanics will make sure that your vehicle can be trusted to safely slow down. 

Common Symptoms of a Brake Problem

Issues related to brake pads often cause symptoms of brake trouble. If you hear a loud squealing sound coming from your brakes, then you have a sign that the little piece of metal attached to the pad has started to rub against the rotor. If your brake pads are shot, then grinding could potentially result. In turn, your rotors could become damaged. While brake pads often need to be replaced by 30,000 miles, how soon you’ll need new pads will depend largely on how aggressively/gently you use your brakes. Vibrations are another sign of trouble, and could indicate a degraded area on the rotor, which is causing the pad to transfer unevenly to it.

A very hazardous sign of brake trouble is that your car drifts off to one side when you engage the brakes. This may happen if a caliper seizes up because of corrosion. With this symptom, you’re at great risk of causing an accident, so you should get your vehicle towed to the shop instead of continuing to drive it. 

An illuminated ABS (anti-lock braking system) warning light is another sign that you should get to the shop. Various issues may trigger this light, such as faulty wheel speed sensors, a failing ABS module, and low brake fluid. In the event that your car is leaking brake fluid, you’ve got a major safety issue. You shouldn't drive a car that has a brake fluid leak. Rather, it’s much safer to get towed to the mechanic for the necessary repairs. 

Brake Repair in Fredericksburg, VA

When you need auto repair in Fredericksburg and the surrounding area, contact Lee Hill Auto Service at 540-824-3730. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!