Jul 31, 2024

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Good brakes are essential for driving safety, as they give you complete control over your Volkswagen’s speed. The braking system generates heat as it works, and combined with natural wear and tear on components, will cause parts to fail. As your Volkswagen dealer, we want to tell you some of the signs you need to visit us for a brake repair. Check out three signs you need a brake repair at your local Volkswagen dealership.

An image of a new set of brakes installed before the technician places the wheel back on the car.

Brake Warning Lights

Your Volkswagen has two brake lights that will automatically light up if any problem with the brakes is detected. Sensors are connected to all the major components of your braking system and monitor the system for any signs that something is wrong. If a problem is identified, the relevant sensor informs your computer, and the specific warning light will illuminate.

The ABS warning light illuminates if the ABS isn’t working correctly. This system prevents your wheels from locking if your car slides on a wet or muddy surface. The brake light lights up if your handbrake is still engaged, if your brake fluid is low, or for any other braking-related issue. We’ll examine your brakes and repair the problem.

Pulling to One Side

When you hit the brakes, the calipers clamp against the spinning wheel rotors and generate friction, and this friction brings the wheels to a stop. The braking system applies equal pressure to each caliper to ensure that all four wheels stop at the same time. If your Volkswagen pulls to one side when you brake, one of the calipers is damaged.

The calipers are positioned about the wheel rotors and are held open by pins. Brake fluid forces the pins out of the calipers, which causes them to close on the rotors. A jammed or rusted pin could remain in place, and its caliper won’t engage. The wheel will continue to turn until brought to a halt by the other wheels stopping. Our technicians will examine the caliper and repair or replace it to fix this problem.

Brake Fluid Leak

Brake fluid provides the hydraulic power that allows the braking system to work. The fluid is highly pressurized to supply sufficient force to bring your Volkswagen to a stop regardless of its present speed. Over time, seals can become worn, rubber brake hoses can crack, metal brake lines can corrode, and fluid will leak.
As the system loses fluid, your brakes will become less responsive, and your braking distance will increase. If you suspect a fluid leak, contact our service department ASAP. We’ll examine your braking system, discover leaks, and repair them. Once any leaks are sealed, we’ll refill your brake fluid. Brake problems are quick and affordable to repair and will give you peace of mind. Contact us today at Auffenberg Volkswagen in Shiloh, IL.