Your brakes are probably the most important part of your car. Without an intake system, you will just cruise anywhere at least without hitting a tree.

In this case, brakes are not something to play around with. Therefore if your car has a braking problem, whether it’s weak brakes, a soft pedal, grinding sounds - whatever your brake problem is, you need to troubleshoot and repair it as soon as possible.

According to Theogéne Mutara, a mechanic in Nyamirambo, brake failure is due to the low brake fluid or when contaminated, worn up brake pads or a bad brake power boost unit.

All these will either cause a brake pedal failure or slow reaction in stopping. It is also right to note that brake problems vary greatly with the make and model of the car, the age of the car and other variables.

It is advisable to consult a mechanic once your car is experiencing brake problems. However, you may be able to narrow down some of the possible problems yourself by:
Stepping off the brake pad with the car’s engine turned off. A soft brake pedal indicates that you may be low on brake fluid, or may need to bleed your brakes.

In a clear area, step sharply on the brake pedal. If the brakes do not stop the car effectively, several things may be wrong, including worn pads, contaminated brake fluid or contaminated brake pads.

If the brakes pull the car to one side, you may need to adjust the brake’s clearance, maybe replacing the pads. Begin driving forward slowly but if the brakes drag and squeal, it may be due to grease on the pads or scored pad.

Check brake fluid regularly. If you have determined that your brakes are bad, avoid driving the car until they are fixed.

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