The brakes of your vehicle are one of the most overworked components of your car. As a result of the tremendous force exerted on them while braking, they often get worn out or damaged. Thus it is essential to conduct regular checks and maintenance services on your vehicle's braking system to ensure they function properly. However, despite regular maintenance checks, the brakes may still need to get replaced or repaired over the course of your vehicles life.  Here are four signs it's time to get your brakes replaced:

Response Issues

When you apply your brakes, the vehicle should immediately start to slow down. Additionally, when the braking system is in top condition, you can feel the brake pedal providing a bit of resistance when you step on it. However, if you apply the brakes and the vehicle doesn't immediately start to slow down, there is an issue with the braking system. In most cases, the problem might result from leaking brake fluid or the presence of air in the brake line. When brake fluid starts to leak, the hydraulic system of the brakes becomes inefficient because the leak allows some of the breaking force to escape, and thus the vehicle takes some time before it begins to slow down. Driving with non-responsive brakes is dangerous. If you have issues with the response of your brakes it is essential to seek a brake repair service.

Your Vehicle Jerks to One Side after Braking

If your vehicle pulls in one direction when you apply the brakes, it is a sign that your brake pads or brake calipers have an issue on one side of the vehicle. The brake caliper encases the brake pads and pistons. It is responsible for directing the brake rotor to apply friction to the wheels and slow down the vehicle.

Thus, if the vehicle is jerking to the side when you apply the brakes, it means that the brake caliper on one side is not functioning properly. Therefore, you may need to replace the caliper or have it reassembled by a professional auto mechanic.

Vibrating Brake Pedal

A vibration in the brake pedal indicates that the vehicle's rotors have warped. Rotors get warped when excessive friction gets applied to the braking system. Warping usually occurs when the car is in a steep decline and there is excessive and prolonged use of the braking system. Hence, the brakes lack sufficient time to cool off and thus, warping occurs.   Depending on how warped the rotors are, a mechanic might repair them by a process called resurfacing and turning the rotors. However, it is advisable to seek brake replacement services and have new rotors installed.

Continued Screeching After Brake Pads Replacement

In most cases, screeching occurs when the brake pads get worn out. The screeching is a result of metal rubbing against metal. However, if you have new brake pads but the screeching sound is still present, then your rotor must be glazed. A glazed rotor is evident by the presence of dark rings on the rotor that occur when metal rubs against metal to the point the metal gets burnt. If you have a glazed rotor, you need to seek brake replacement services and have a new rotor installed.

Visit a site like http://www.autoservicefairfax.com for more information.