The smooth, confident stop of a well-functioning car is often taken for granted. But when your car starts to “skip” or shudder when you brake, it can be a jarring and concerning experience. This unsettling sensation can signal a range of issues, from minor inconveniences to potentially serious safety hazards. Understanding why your car is skipping when you brake is crucial for ensuring your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.
This skipping sensation, often described as a pulsating or vibrating feeling in the brake pedal, can be caused by a variety of factors. It’s important to remember that ignoring this issue can lead to decreased braking performance and potentially dangerous situations. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the common causes of brake skipping, explore the potential dangers, and provide practical advice on how to diagnose and address the problem.
Table of Contents
Understanding Brake Skipping
Brake skipping, also known as brake pulsation, occurs when the brake rotors, the metal discs that clamp against the brake pads to slow down the car, are warped or unevenly worn. This warping creates a vibration that transmits through the brake pedal, causing the skipping sensation.
Causes of Brake Skipping
Several factors can contribute to brake rotor warping and, consequently, brake skipping:
* **Overheating:** Excessive braking, such as during prolonged downhill driving or aggressive stops, can cause the brake rotors to overheat. This can lead to warping, especially if the brakes are not properly cooled.
* **Uneven Wear:** Brake pads that are worn unevenly can cause uneven pressure on the rotors, leading to warping over time.
* **Manufacturing Defects:** In rare cases, brake rotors may be manufactured with imperfections that make them prone to warping.
* **Improper Installation:** Incorrectly installed brake pads or rotors can also contribute to uneven wear and warping.
Dangers of Brake Skipping
Brake skipping is not just an annoying sensation; it can pose a serious safety hazard. Here’s why:
* **Reduced Braking Performance:** Warped rotors can significantly reduce the effectiveness of your brakes, making it harder to stop your vehicle in a timely manner.
* **Loss of Control:** The vibration caused by brake skipping can make it difficult to maintain control of your vehicle, especially at high speeds.
* **Increased Stopping Distance:** Brake skipping can increase your stopping distance, putting you at a greater risk of accidents.
* **Damage to Other Components:** Continued driving with warped rotors can lead to damage to other brake components, such as the brake pads and calipers.
Diagnosing Brake Skipping
If you notice your car skipping when you brake, it’s essential to have it diagnosed by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Here are some signs to look out for: (See Also: Where to Put Brake Lube? Ultimate Guide)
* **Pulsating or Vibrating Brake Pedal:** This is the most common symptom of brake skipping. You’ll feel a rhythmic pulsation or vibration in the brake pedal when you apply the brakes.
* **Noise:** You may hear a grinding or squealing noise when you brake, especially if the brake pads are also worn.
* **Pulling to One Side:** If the brake rotors are warped unevenly, your car may pull to one side when you brake.
Diagnostic Tools
Mechanics use several tools to diagnose brake skipping:
* **Visual Inspection:** The mechanic will visually inspect the brake rotors for signs of warping, such as uneven surfaces or discoloration.
* **Dial Indicator Test:** A dial indicator is used to measure the runout of the brake rotor, which is the amount of variation in the rotor’s thickness.
* **Brake Pad Thickness Gauge:** This tool measures the thickness of the brake pads to determine if they are worn.
Repairing Brake Skipping
The most common repair for brake skipping is to replace the warped brake rotors. In some cases, the brake pads may also need to be replaced.
Rotor Replacement
* **Machining:** If the rotors are only slightly warped, they may be able to be machined to remove the imperfections. This is a less expensive option than replacing the rotors, but it may not be possible for severely warped rotors.
* **Replacement:** If the rotors are too warped to be machined or if they are significantly worn, they will need to be replaced.
Brake Pad Replacement
* **Material:** Brake pads come in a variety of materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
* **Installation:** Proper installation of brake pads is crucial to ensure even wear and prevent future brake skipping.
Maintaining Your Brakes
Regular maintenance is essential for preventing brake skipping and ensuring the safety and longevity of your brakes. Here are some tips: (See Also: How Much to Fix Brake System? Cost Breakdown)
* **Check Your Brake Fluid:** Have your brake fluid checked and topped off regularly.
* **Inspect Your Brake Pads:** Visually inspect your brake pads for wear and tear.
* **Avoid Hard Braking:** Practice smooth and gradual braking to reduce the risk of overheating your brakes.
* **Have Your Brakes Serviced Regularly:** Follow your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule for brake service.
Why Is My Car Skipping When I Brake? – FAQs
What does it mean when my car shakes when I brake?
When your car shakes when you brake, it’s usually a sign of warped brake rotors. This means the rotors are unevenly worn, causing a vibration that you feel through the brake pedal and steering wheel.
How do I know if my brake rotors are warped?
Besides shaking, you might hear a grinding or squealing noise when braking. A visual inspection by a mechanic can also reveal warping.
Can I drive with warped brake rotors?
It’s not recommended to drive with warped brake rotors. While you might be able to drive for a short time, it can lead to further damage and compromise your safety.
How much does it cost to replace brake rotors?
The cost of replacing brake rotors varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the type of rotors you choose. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500 per axle.
How often should I replace my brake rotors?
Brake rotor lifespan varies depending on driving habits and conditions. Generally, you can expect to replace them every 30,000 to 70,000 miles. (See Also: How Do You Know if You Need New Brake Calipers? Signs Of Wear)
Recap: Understanding and Addressing Brake Skipping
Brake skipping, a disconcerting sensation that can compromise your safety, is often caused by warped brake rotors. These rotors, essential for slowing and stopping your vehicle, can warp due to overheating, uneven wear, manufacturing defects, or improper installation.
Recognizing the symptoms of brake skipping, such as pulsating or vibrating brake pedals, grinding noises, and pulling to one side, is crucial for prompt diagnosis and repair. A qualified mechanic can use tools like visual inspection, dial indicator tests, and brake pad thickness gauges to pinpoint the issue.
Repairing brake skipping typically involves replacing the warped rotors and potentially the brake pads. While machining warped rotors is a less expensive option, it’s not always feasible. Regular brake maintenance, including checking brake fluid, inspecting brake pads, avoiding hard braking, and adhering to your vehicle’s recommended service schedule, can significantly extend the life of your brake system and prevent future skipping.
Remember, your brakes are your lifeline on the road. Addressing brake skipping promptly ensures your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.
