We have recently written about brake fluid testing and how it can be dangerous to leave brake fluid levels when they are low. The next thing we are going to look at is the brake discs. Here are what brake discs look like if you are not familiar with them after all they are not visible when you are driving the vehicle.

The brake discs are attached to the wheel and when the brake pedal is applied then the discs help the vehicle slow down. However, if the brake discs are damaged or worn then you might be hard pushed to get the vehicle to slow down in an emergency or just in general when out on the road which puts everyone’s safety at risk.

Here are some useful tips and what to look out for when diagnosing common brake disc faults.

Brake thermal juddering

When you are braking out on the road are you experiencing juddering and heavy vibrations when slowing down from high speeds. If so then this is a sign that you are experiencing brake disc problems.

When brake discs become cracked

If the brake discs are cracked then their strength will be compromised so when you apply brake pedal pressure you might be finding it hard to slow the vehicle or car down. The cause of the crack can be mainly down to the brake being worn out causing further damage.

Worn brake pads

Completely worn out brake pads will often make a grinding noise and cause vibrations. If you hear grinding noises then it is more than likely you need a new set of brake pads.

Brake disc underlying corrosion

If the brake discs have not been regularly maintenance then this can lead to long term underlying corrosion. Corrosion can also be caused by contamination. If this is happening then you are likely going to experience heavy vibrations.

Cold Juddering brake discs

Cold juddering is caused because there is a variation in the disc thickness and the wheels have become miss-aligned and out of balance. Others causes include the bearing components becoming faulty. If you have this problem then parts of the vehicles chassis will be vibrating and you will feel heavy sensations coming from the brake pedal.

Hopefully we have given you a few things to look out for if you think you are experiencing brake disc problems. But we know everything we have written is rather complicated, so, if you need to speak to an expert then get in touch with us and we are happy to help you with any queries you have.

Contact A1 Diagnostics
Get in touch today for expert advice or to book your vehicle in for an MOT we are happy to help you with any vehicle queries you have.

A1-Diagnostics and ECU Repairs
64 Sloper Road
Leckwith,
Cardiff
CF11 8AB

Tel: (029 20) 220380
Fax: (029 20) 223172

Opening Times

Mon – Fri: 8:00am – 6:00pm

Email: info@a1-diagnostics.com