Maintaining your brakes is vital for your safety, so brake troubleshooting–identifying and finding solutions to problems–should be a priority for any Jeep owner. Fortunately, some of the most common issues with Jeep brakes have straightforward solutions. Here, we’ll outline the most frequent brake problems and how to diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair them.
Stiff or Spongy Brake Pedal
A stiff or spongy brake pedal indicates a loss of brake fluid pressure, often caused by air trapped in the brake lines. Usually, a simple brake fluid flush and full system inspection is enough to resolve the issue.
Brake Pedal is Low
Low brake pedals are the most common Jeep brake problem, and they can be caused by a miscalibrated brake fluid level or low brake fluid caused by leaks.
Inspect the vehicle for signs of leaks and then check the brake fluid levels and calibrate if necessary. If the levels are already correct, check all the brake parts, from pads and calipers to master and wheel cylinders, looking for damaged parts that might cause the brake pedal to go low.
Fading Brakes
If your brakes seem to fade while you’re driving, they may have overheated. Check the brake rotors and master cylinder for wear and overheating, changing any components that appear worn or damaged. Make sure you use a high-quality brake fluid, as this will help maintain brake performance and prevent overheating.
Grinding, Squealing Noise
If your brakes grind or squeal when braking, it’s likely the pads have worn down to the point where they’re rubbing against the rotors. Replacing the pads should solve the problem.
Vibrations
If your brakes vibrate when braking, it’s likely the rotors were warped due to extreme heat build-up caused by aggressive braking and high-speed driving. Check the rotors for warping and replace them if necessary.
Solutions
Taking the time to troubleshoot your brakes is essential for the life and longevity of your Jeep. If you encounter any of the above issues, begin by inspecting the brake parts for signs of wear or damage and replacing any worn parts. Besides the above solutions, make sure you check your brakes regularly for any signs of trouble and always use a high-quality brake fluid to help maintain optimal brake performance
