- a) The car pulls to one side when braking.
- b) Extraneous noises appear when braking.
- c) The brake pedal travel is excessive.
- d) Constant topping up of brake fluid is required.
Checking the condition of the brake disc
Raise the front of the vehicle and secure it on stands. Remove the wheels for better access to the brake calipers. Check through the inspection window on the caliper that the material thickness of each pad is not less than the recommended minimum thickness given in the technical requirements. Remove the caliper if necessary.
If even just one pad is worn out, all four pads must be replaced.
Measure the thickness of the brake discs with a micrometer. If the disc is thinner than the required minimum thickness or its condition is unsatisfactory, the disc must be replaced.
Check the condition of the brake hoses near the calipers, where they are subject to maximum movement.
Rear brakes
Raise the front of the car and secure it on stands. Remove the wheels for better access. To check the condition of the rear brake shoes, without removing the brake drums, use a lever to remove the rubber plugs from the brake shields, and use a flashlight and mirror to inspect the thickness of the rear brake shoe linings.
For a thorough inspection, remove the brake drums. With the brake drum removed, inspect the brake shoes, return and support springs for proper shoe installation, and check the wheel cylinders for brake fluid leaks. Inspect the friction surface of the brake drums for wear.