Signs Your Audi Has Brake Problems
As specialists in both Audi and VW automobiles, you don’t need to look any further than Peak Euro for your Audi brake problems, or VW brake problems for that matter. Although engineered to near perfection, Audi automobiles tend to have the following six common problems with the braking system. Don’t worry. We can inspect your brakes to ensure they’re okay and make repairs when necessary.
Brake Fade
Brake fade makes it seem as if your Audi is going to stop when you first step on the brake pedal but you suddenly find yourself losing brake power. If you have water or condensation in the brake lines, this can dilute the brake fluid and reduce your vehicle’s stopping capability. It might seem as if you’ve got plenty of time to stop, but then the brake power will “fade” and you’ll keep going.
Sinking Brake Pedal
Your brake pedal should always stop about 1 inch to 1 1/2 inches from the floor. If you have a leak in your brake system, or there is air in the brake lines, you may find that the brake pedal sinks all the way to the floor or much lower than normal. This is also a sign of brake master cylinder problems. Air in your brake lines or master cylinder trouble can also make your brake pedal feel spongy or too soft.
Stuck Brake Pedal
The opposite of a soft brake pedal is obviously a hard one. The brake booster amplifies the force of your foot on the pedal to the braking system. If the booster is going bad, you might not be able to push your brake pedal down at all or it will feel much harder to the touch. You know how your brake pedal feels and any changes to that sensation are a sign of brake problems.
Pulsing Brake Pedal
If you’ve let your brake pads wear down to their steel backings, you will warp the brake rotors prematurely. If you drive an older Audi, or put a ton of miles on your new Audi, the rotors will also warp due to age. When the brake pads press up against the warped rotors you will feel pulsating or vibrating in the brake pedal or the steering wheel. This is a sign that the rotors need to be replaced.
Brake Noises
Finally, perhaps the most common sign of Audi brake problems are strange noises. Grinding sounds indicate that the brake pads are worn down and need to be replaced. Squealing or squeaking sounds can be caused by worn brake pads, wet breaks, overheating breaks, or other brake system trouble. Your brakes should be silent. If they aren’t, something is wrong.
Peak Euro in Bend, OR, would be happy to inspect your Audi or VW’s brake system. We are a full-service auto maintenance and repair shop that specializes in Audi and Volkswagen automobiles.