SYMPTOMS OF BRAKE SYSTEM PROBLEMS
Brake pedal fades to the floor when the brake is applied at a stop: This
symptom usually points to a bad master cylinder. Sometimes a brake fluid
leak in a line or component will be the culprit.
Brake pedal pulsates up and down when the brake is applied: Brake
pedal pulsation usually can be tracked to a warped brake rotor or drum.
Warping occurs when a brake doesn’t completely disengage when it’s
released. The excess heat produced from friction when the pads or shoes rub
against the rotor or drum heats them up and causes the rotor or drum to warp.
Excessively loose steering or suspension parts or a very loose wheel bearing
can also cause pedal pulsation.
Car pulls to one side or another when braking: This symptom is usually a
sign that a brake is dragging or not disengaging when the brake pedal is
released.
Hot, smoking wheel: If you see smoke or smell a burnt odor coming from a
wheel, then probably the brake is stuck on that wheel. Get the vehicle on a
lift and check it out immediately.