When your brakes start showing signs of trouble, it’s essential to address the issue immediately to prevent accidents and costly repairs. Ignoring brake problems can put you and others in serious danger. 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. Squeaking or Grinding Noises If you hear a high-pitched squeaking or a grinding noise when you apply the brakes, it’s a clear sign of trouble. Squeaking often indicates that the brake pads are worn down and need to be replaced. Grinding sounds usually mean that the brake pads have worn away completely, causing metal-on-metal contact. This can lead to severe damage and expensive repairs if not fixed promptly. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal A brake pedal that feels soft, spongy, or requires extra pressure to engage is a serious warning sign. This could indicate air in the brake lines or a fluid leak. Low brake fluid levels reduce braking power and increase stopping distances, making it unsafe to drive. If you think your car may have a brake fluid leak, you should get towed to the shop instead of driving there. Vibrations/Shaking When Braking If you notice vibrations when you apply the brakes, it could be a sign of warped brake rotors. Rotors can become uneven over time due to excessive heat buildup. Warped rotors reduce braking efficiency and make it harder to stop smoothly. If you experience this issue, have your rotors inspected and resurfaced or replaced if necessary. Car Pulling to One Side When you apply the brakes, your vehicle should stop in a straight line. If your car pulls to one side, it may indicate a stuck caliper. Uneven braking can make it difficult to control your vehicle, especially in emergency situations, so this issue needs to be addressed ASAP. Brake Warning Light on the Dashboard Your vehicle’s brake warning light is designed to alert you to potential problems with the braking system. If this light comes on, it could indicate problems such as low brake fluid or malfunctioning wheel speed sensors. Never ignore this warning light, as it could mean that your brakes are not functioning properly. Have your vehicle checked by the mechanic to diagnose and fix the issue. 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 nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Your car's engine is the heart of your vehicle, and when it starts showing signs of trouble, it’s crucial to address them quickly. Ignoring engine issues can lead to more expensive repairs or even complete engine failure. At HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, we provide expert engine repair in the greater Birmingham, AL area. Here are five common signs of an engine problem. Abnormal Noises Strange noises coming from your engine—such as knocking, ticking, or grinding—often indicate a serious problem. These sounds could be caused by low oil levels, worn-out components, or internal damage. If you notice any unusual engine noises, it’s best to have your vehicle inspected by the mechanic immediately. Discolored/Excessive Exhaust Smoke Excessive smoke coming from your exhaust is a clear indication of engine trouble. Different smoke colors can signal various problems. Blue smoke suggests an oil leak, white smoke could indicate an internal coolant leak, and black smoke often points to an overly rich fuel mixture. Any unusual exhaust emissions should be addressed promptly. Decreased Performance If your vehicle struggles to accelerate or stalls frequently, there’s likely an issue with the engine. Common culprits include a clogged fuel filter, failing spark plugs, or issues with the fuel injectors. Poor engine performance not only affects drivability, but can also reduce fuel-efficiency. Warning Light on the Dashboard Modern vehicles are equipped with sophisticated diagnostic systems, and the check engine light is one of the most important alerts. Ignoring warning lights can allow minor issues to become major repairs. Common check engine light triggers include issues with catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, and MAF sensors. Rough Idling or Stalling An engine that idles roughly or stalls unexpectedly is often a sign of trouble. This issue could stem from problems with the fuel system or spark plugs. A smoothly running engine should idle without pronounced vibrations. Engine Repair in Birmingham, AL When you need engine repair in Birmingham, AL and the surrounding area, contact HESCO Automotive & Performance Center at (205) 526-3796. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!