HESCO Automotive & Performance Center Blog

Your vehicle’s braking system is one of its most critical safety features, allowing you to slow down and stop with confidence. When brakes begin to wear or malfunction, they often provide warning signs long before a complete failure occurs. Recognizing these signs early can help prevent accidents and reduce repair costs. At HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Birmingham, AL area. Here are five common signs of a brake problem. Squealing or Grinding Sounds Unusual noises are often the first sign that something is wrong with your brakes. A high-pitched squeal typically indicates worn brake pads, while a grinding sound may mean the pads are completely worn down. Grinding can cause damage to brake rotors, leading to more expensive repairs if not addressed promptly. Any persistent brake noise should be inspected by a professional. Vibrations When Braking If you feel shaking or vibrations when slowing down, it may be a sign of warped brake rotors. This can occur from excessive heat buildup or prolonged wear. Vibrations reduce braking efficiency and can make stopping distances less predictable. Having the issue diagnosed early helps restore smooth, consistent braking performance. A Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal A brake pedal that feels soft, spongy, or sinks toward the floor can indicate air in the brake lines or low brake fluid, potentially due to a leak. These issues reduce the hydraulic pressure needed for effective braking, making it harder to stop the vehicle. With leaking brake fluid, you’ve got a major safety hazard and should get towed to the shop. Vehicle Pulling to One Side When a vehicle pulls to one side during braking, it often points to a sticking caliper. This pulling can drastically affect vehicle control. Ignoring the problem can also cause uneven wear on tires and suspension components, compounding the issue over time. Warning Lights Modern vehicles are equipped with dashboard warning lights that alert drivers to brake system issues. A brake warning light should never be ignored, as it may indicate low fluid levels or system malfunctions. Brake Repair in Birmingham, AL When you need auto repair in Birmingham and the surrounding area, contact HESCO Automotive & Performance Center at (205) 526-3796. At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment! .

Few things make drivers more uneasy than the check engine light suddenly appearing on the dashboard. While the light can signal a wide range of issues, it always means your vehicle’s onboard computer has detected something abnormal. Ignoring it can lead to bigger, more expensive problems later on, so it’s best to visit the shop for diagnostics ASAP. At HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Birmingham, AL area. Here are four common car issues that cause the check engine light to illuminate. Faulty Oxygen Sensor One of the most common reasons for a check engine light is a failing oxygen sensor. This sensor monitors the amount of unburned oxygen in the exhaust and helps the engine adjust its air-fuel mixture. When it malfunctions, the vehicle may burn more fuel than necessary, decreasing fuel-economy and increasing emissions. If left unchecked, a bad oxygen sensor can also damage the catalytic converter. Replacing it promptly helps your engine run efficiently and prevents further complications. Malfunctioning Catalytic Converter The catalytic converter is a vital emissions control component that converts harmful gases into safer emissions. When it begins to fail, the vehicle may experience sluggish performance and decreased fuel-economy. A failing catalytic converter will almost certainly trigger the check engine light. Faulty Spark Plugs/Ignition Coils Spark plugs and ignition coils are essential for igniting the fuel-air mixture in the engine. When they wear out or fail, the engine may misfire, run rough, or struggle to accelerate. These misfires can be quickly detected by the computer system, causing the check engine light to come on. Replacing spark plugs and coils is relatively inexpensive and can restore smooth performance. Problems with the Mass Airflow Sensor The mass airflow (MAF) sensor measures how much air is entering the engine so that the computer can balance the fuel mixture correctly. A failing MAF sensor can cause stalling, poor fuel-economy, and sluggish acceleration. Replacing the sensor usually resolves the problem. Check Engine Light Diagnostics & Repair in Birmingham, AL When you need engine diagnostics and repair in Birmingham and the surrounding area, contact HESCO Automotive & Performance Center at (205) 526-3796. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!