Seaside Auto Repair

Why Are My Brakes Grinding? Hearing a grinding noise when you hit the brakes is never a good sign. It’s not only frustrating, but it can also indicate a serious issue with your brake system that needs immediate attention. At Wayside Garage, we want to help you understand why your brakes are grinding and what you can do to fix the problem. Why Are My Brakes Grinding? Brakes typically grind when there's metal-on-metal contact happening within the braking system. This noise usually points to worn-out parts, but there can be other causes as well. Here are the most common reasons why your brakes might be grinding: 1. Worn Brake Pads The most frequent cause of grinding brakes is worn-out brake pads. Brake pads are designed to wear down over time, and if they’re not replaced regularly, they can wear all the way down to the metal. When this happens, the metal backing of the brake pad starts to make contact with the rotor, leading to a grin ... read more

wheel shake wayside garage by Stacey Diaz Why Is My Steering Wheel Shaking When I Brake? If you've ever felt your steering wheel shake when braking, you know it can be alarming. Not only is it uncomfortable, but it's also a sign that something might be wrong with your vehicle. At Wayside Garage, we’re here to help you understand why this happens and what you can do about it. Why Does My Steering Wheel Shake? When your steering wheel vibrates during braking, it’s often due to issues in your brake or suspension system. Here are some common reasons this happens: 1. Warped Brake Rotors Your brake rotors are the discs that your brake pads clamp down on to stop your vehicle. Over time, these rotors can warp due to heat, wear, or uneven press ... read more

October is Brakes for Breasts Month at Wayside Garage! Your vehicle’s brakes are one of the most critical components when it comes to safety. Whether you're driving around town or hitting the highway, properly functioning brakes can be the difference between a close call and a serious accident. That’s why at Wayside Garage, we’re excited to support the Brakes for Breasts campaign this October. This month, you can get a free set of brake pads or brake shoes when you schedule a brake service, and we will donate 10% of all brake repair proceeds to help fund breast cancer vaccine research. Why Are Your Brakes So Important? Your brakes are what allow your car to stop quickly and safely. Over time, wear and tear from daily driving can cause brake pads to thin out, reducing their effectiveness. If left unchecked, worn brake pads can lead to further damage to your braking system, such as rotor wear or even brake failur ... read more

Why Does My Brake Pedal Feel Squishy? If you've ever pressed down on your brake pedal and felt it sink lower than usual or feel "squishy," it’s a sign that something is off with your braking system. While it can be unsettling, it's important to understand the possible reasons behind this sensation and how to address it to keep your vehicle safe. Common Causes of a Squishy Brake Pedal Air in the Brake Lines One of the most common causes of a soft brake pedal is air trapped in the brake lines. Your brakes rely on hydraulic pressure to work properly. If air gets into the system, it can cause inconsistent pressure, resulting in that squishy feeling when you press the pedal. This typically happens after a brake fluid change or due to a leak in the system. Low or Old Brake Fluid Over time, your brake fluid can absorb moisture, which reduces its effectiveness. Low fluid levels can also affect brake performance. Bra ... read more

How Often Should I Change My Brake Pads? Your vehicle's brake pads are one of the most critical components for your safety on the road, yet knowing when to change them can be tricky. So, how often should you change your brake pads? The answer depends on several factors like your driving habits, the type of vehicle, and even the quality of the brake pads themselves. General Guidelines for Brake Pad Replacement On average, most brake pads should be replaced every 30,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on their wear. However, it's essential to listen to your vehicle—literally! Squeaking or grinding noises when you brake are often tell-tale signs that your pads are worn out and need immediate attention. At Wayside Garage, we recommend having your brakes inspected every time you bring your vehicle in for service. Regular brake checks help catch potential issues early, saving you money in the long run and ensuring your car is al ... read more