Seaside Auto Repair

Why Are My Brakes Squeaking? Squeaking brakes can be frustrating, but they also serve as an important warning that your brake system may need attention. At Wayside Garage, we believe it’s important to understand what causes your brakes to squeak and how to address the issue before it leads to bigger problems. Why Do My Brakes Squeak? Squeaking brakes are a common issue, and there are several possible reasons behind it: 1. Worn Brake Pads The most frequent cause of squeaking brakes is worn-out brake pads. Modern brake pads often come with a built-in metal wear indicator, which makes a high-pitched noise when the pads are getting too thin. This squeal is your car’s way of telling you it’s time for a replacement before more damage is done to the brake system​ 2. Moisture or Debris Sometimes, squeaking can occur due to moisture or debris, like dust or small rocks, getting stuck between the brake pads and rotors. Th ... read more

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