Squeaky brakes are never a good sign. The high-pitched squealing or screeching noise when you apply the brakes usually means the brake pads are worn out and need replacing. But how long is it actually safe to drive with those annoying squeaky brakes before getting it fixed? Here’s a quick answer: You can generally drive cautiously…
Driving down a long, steep downgrade can be daunting for even the most seasoned drivers. Maintaining control of your speed and vehicle is critical for safety. While the engine braking provides some slowing power, properly using your brakes is key to keeping speeds in check on steep downhills. Follow this guide to learn when and…
Driving in hazardous weather conditions like rain, ice and snow can be tricky. You need to handle your vehicle carefully and use techniques like engine braking to maintain control. But is it safe to use engine brakes in all weather conditions? Let’s find out. Here’s a quick answer: Engine braking can be utilized in rain, ice…
Getting your car to pass its annual state inspection can be a stressful event, especially if you know some components are worn or damaged. One of the most critical inspection items is your vehicle’s braking system, as safe braking is essential for accident prevention. So what happens if your brake pads, rotors, or other hardware…
Truck caps, also known as camper shells, provide extra storage space and weather protection for pickup trucks. But do these popular truck accessories require a brake light? The short answer is yes – truck caps need to have a working third brake light installed. Why Brake Lights Are Necessary on Trucks and Truck Caps Brake…
Brake light kill switches have become a controversial automotive modification. These devices allow drivers to temporarily disable their brake lights, often used to avoid police detection. But are brake light kill switches actually illegal? The answer is complicated, depending on your local laws. This article examines the legality issues surrounding brake light kill switches. What…
A broken or non-functional tail light on your vehicle can not only put you at risk of getting a traffic ticket, but more importantly, it can greatly increase the chances of a collision or accident on the road. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the laws and regulations around tail light requirements and how police…
Having properly functioning brakes is absolutely essential for safe driving. While issues with front brakes tend to be more noticeable and hazardous, driving with bad rear brakes can also be extremely dangerous. In this article, we’ll examine why rear brakes matter, signs of rear brake problems, the risks of continuing to drive, and your options…
The brake caliper is a crucial component of your vehicle’s braking system. It houses the brake pads and uses hydraulic force to squeeze them against the rotor to stop your wheels from spinning. The caliper bolts are what hold the caliper securely to the knuckle or brake bracket. If one or more of these bolts…
Your car’s brake lights play an important safety role by alerting other drivers when you are slowing down or stopping. But what if those brake lights stay illuminated even when you aren’t braking? This is usually an indication of a problem with your car’s braking system that requires prompt attention. So how long is it…
Emergency braking situations can happen when you least expect them – a child darting into the road, traffic suddenly stopping ahead of you, or an obstacle in your path that appears without warning. Your natural reaction may be to slam on the brakes. But should you avoid fully locking them up? The answer is yes,…
The parking brake, also known as the emergency brake or handbrake, is an important safety feature in vehicles. As the name suggests, it’s intended to keep a parked vehicle stationary, particularly on slopes. However, many drivers have wondered – how far can you actually drive with the parking brake on before you cause damage? What…
