When it comes to optimizing the health and performance of your Audi, brake system maintenance is a must. Let’s discuss how to maintain your Audi’s brake system, warning signs and causes of problems with your brake system, and where to take your Audi for brake system maintenance.
Maintaining Your Audi’s Brake System
Preventative maintenance and care of your Audi’s brake system will save you from unnecessary and costly repairs down the road. Make a routine of taking your vehicle in for brake system maintenance. Monitor brake fluid levels and check them every three months.
Brake fluid should be replaced according to the recommendation in your owner’s manual. You’ll also want to monitor and change your brake discs when needed. Bleeding your brake lines also helps to get any air out of your brake system. You can do so by pumping your brakes while someone watches the bleeder valve and closes the valve when brake fluid begins to flow through.
Finally, have your brake pads and rotors inspected to ensure they are in good condition. Failing to replace brake pads when needed can result in rotor damage, which equates to a much more expensive repair bill.
Warning Signs and Causes of Problems with Your Brake System
Should you encounter any of the below warning signs, you’ll want to take your Audi in to have its brake system serviced as soon as possible:
- Brake Light Turns On: Your vehicle’s brake light warning may illuminate on your dashboard when you’re due for an inspection or if you’ve left the parking brake However, it could also signify a more severe problem, so you’ll want to have your car inspected just to be safe.
- Squealing or Grinding Sounds: Any unusual noises that occur when you apply pressure to the brakes is usually a sign your brake pads are worn and need replaced. The squealing, squeaking, and grinding sounds are from the brake pad wear indicators. It’s important to get worn out brake pads replaced before rotor damage occurs, as rotors are not cheap to replace.
- Vibration when Braking: An uneven rotor can cause shaking in the steering wheel or vibration when you step on the brakes. When you put pressure on the brakes, the brake pads hug the rotors. This causes them friction which will bring your vehicle to a stop. Rotors should be smooth and have an even thickness to provide optimum performance.
- Leaking Fluid: The master cylinder is what creates power for your brakes in the brake system. A leak from the master cylinder or elsewhere in the brake system can cause a soft brake pedal, meaning there may not be enough power to force the brake pads to hug the rotors to slow your vehicle.
- Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal: If you notice the resistance in your brake pedal waning, or if the brake pedal sinks to the floorboard when pressed, your car needs immediate service. There is likely air or moisture in the braking system or a problem with the master cylinder.
- Vehicle Pulls to One Side when Braking: If your vehicle pulls to one side when braking, you’re likely dealing with a faulty brake hose or a caliper problem. If one caliper is applying more pressure than the others, it could cause an imbalance when slowing and stopping.
- Burning Smell: If you encounter a burning smell while driving after stepping hard on the brakes, you’re likely dealing with overheated brakes or an overheated clutch. Pull over and allow your brakes to cool before driving further. Driving with burning brake fluid can cause brake failure, and your safety will be put at risk as a result.
- Vehicle Rocks or Bounces with Sharp Braking: If you encounter your vehicle bouncing or rocking with sharp braking, your shock absorbers may be the problem.
My Dad’s Automotive Can Help
When it comes to servicing your Audi’s brake 
system, My Dad’s Automotive has you covered. We proudly service our clients in the Lee’s Corner, Centreville, Oak Hill, South Riding, Schneider Crossroads, Fairfax, Reston, Arlington, and Chantilly, VA, areas. Next time you need your brake system maintenance, give us a call to schedule your appointment or come in. We look forward to serving you and earning your trust.