Winter in New England comes with some treacherous conditions on the roads. Ice and snow make surfaces slippery, and losing control of your car becomes a real possibility. In addition to having good tires that can handle the snow and being careful while you drive, you also want to ensure that your brakes are in good working order. In the winter, your brakes can make some noises that you may not have heard before. Some of them are okay, but others indicate that you need brake repair.
Let’s take a look at the circumstances that can cause unusual brake noises in the winter.
Engaging the ABS
Anti-lock brake systems (ABS) have been required on all passenger vehicles in the US since 2012. However, they have been common for much longer than that because the EU required them starting in 2004. If you have never been in a situation where your ABS engages, you might be surprised by the noise. You will also be able to feel the ABS kicking in. It feels like a pulsing through the brake pedal. There may also be grinding or buzzing noises. If you feel or hear the ABS engage, just keep your foot on the brake and continue to steer until your car comes to a stop.
Rusty Rotors
If you don’t have the luxury of parking in a nice, warm garage in the winter, any moisture that settles on your rotors can oxidize into rust overnight. As you drive around and your brake pads rub against the rotors, the rust should wear off. As it does, you may hear some squeaking coming from your brakes. If it doesn’t stop after driving for a little while, take your car to a trusted mechanic for brake repair.
Icy Brakes
Water can easily get into your brake pads and rotors as you drive around in the winter. There’s not really anything you can do about that, and it’s generally not a problem. However, when your car sits in below-freezing temperatures for a while, that water can turn to ice. When you start your car up and begin to drive again, that ice can make your brakes squeal or grind. Just like with the rusty rotor issue, the noises should stop as the ice melts.
Reliable Brake Repair at Road Runner Auto
If you need brake repair this winter, come to Road Runner Auto Repair! Our team of expert mechanics will have you back on the road and driving safely in no time.