Brake Safety Awareness Week starts Aug. 20

Bethesda, MD – Take the time to get your vehicle’s brake system checked during Brake Safety Awareness Week, Aug. 20-28, the Car Care Council recently urged.

“Brake Safety Awareness Week is the perfect time to think about what’s stopping your car,” said Rich White, executive director at the council. “Brakes are a normal wear item for any car, and eventually they’re going to need to be replaced for both performance and safety reasons.”

Brakes should be checked by a professional at least once per year, although motorists should look for signs of brake problems year-round. Brakes should be checked if the vehicle begins pulling to the left or right. A vibrating brake pedal, high or low pedal feel, squealing sounds, or an illuminated brake light also are signs that brakes should be checked.

A thorough inspection should include checking brake lining wear, brake fluid levels, rotor thickness, conditions of hoses and brake lines, and dash warning lights. Technicians should take the vehicle for a test drive to help detect any potential problems.