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Cars as reliable as Mercedes use a large number of parts that work together to ensure powerful performance and a car that lasts. However, like with any car, parts can get worn down and degrade over time. This is only natural, but it is important to be aware of these problems when they occur and resolve them as quickly as possible. Of the various problems that can arise with a vehicle, few are as serious as brake problems. It should go without saying that the brakes on a vehicle are some of the most important parts of the whole system. Keeping this functioning is paramount to both the safety of passengers and the overall performance of your car. If you suspect your vehicle is having brake issues, don’t hesitate to take it into the shop right away to be fixed. How Does the Brake System Work Understanding the seriousness of brake issues in your Mercedes starts with understanding how the system actually works. There are a number of parts that work together to slow down your vehicle as you press on the brake pedal, but few people are actually aware of them. As you push your foot down on the pedal, a lever is connected to a piston that pushes into a master cylinder. As it is pressed in, hydraulic fluid (also called brake fluid) gets pushed through a system of pipes that enters cylinders next to the brakes on your wheels. The reason for the hydraulic fluid is that your foot pressing on the brake doesn’t have enough power to slow a car down as fast as you would think. In fact, it would be quite difficult to do all by yourself, so the hydraulic fluid makes this process easier by amplifying the force of your foot. As the hydraulic fluid enters the cylinders next to your brakes, something known as a brake caliper makes the brake pad press against the brake desk. This compression slows the wheels of your vehicle and eventually brings you to a stop. Brake issues can arise for a number of reasons under the hood and they can sometimes be difficult to spot. Despite this, it is quite important to take your vehicle in after experiencing brake problems as bad brakes can lead to life-threatening situations in your Mercedes. Signs of Brake Issues As mentioned, there are a number of reasons brakes may start to have problems and some signs to keep an eye out for. All of the following signs should be taken seriously and used as reasoning to take your car into the shop immediately. Leaking Brake Fluid Brake fluid, as discussed, is the most important part of the braking system since it amplifies the force you apply to the brake. There could, however, be a leak in the system of tubes that transports the fluid that will lead to a decrease in the overall amount as time passes. If you notice your car is leaving a trail behind you every time you brake, it may be an indication of a hydraulic fluid leak. Squealing or Squeaking Noises Under no circumstance should your Mercedes be making odd noises when you apply the brakes. If the sound is a high-pitched noise, almost metal on metal, it is an indicator that your brake pads may need to be replaced, as the steel is now making contact directly with steel. Otherwise, a grinding type of sign could be indicative of something caught in the brake caliper. Spongy Brake Pedal You know your car best and if you suddenly start feeling something different when pressing down on the brake, it’s possible that something could be stuck or something may be wrong with a cylinder. This is one of the most dangerous signs as it means your brake pedal may not work as it should. How Encore Motorcars Can Help At Encore Motorcars, we understand just how important brakes are and how to fix them. We serve clients in the areas of Bradenton, Ellenton, Nokomis, Osprey, Parrish, Venice, Lakewood Ranch, Longboat Key, Siesta Key, University Park, and Sarasota, FL. Our specialty of working with German, Exotic, and Import cars means we have the knowledge and expertise needed to troubleshoot and fix your Mercedes. Don’t settle for a problem that can lead to safety issues down the line. Give us a call to schedule an appointment today or come on down to get your vehicle fixed right away.

Modern vehicles have a whole host of automations that would have been unfathomable even two decades ago. From the engine to the dashboard to enhanced cruise control options, the computers inside vehicles are now capable of automating all but the most complex driver’s functions in a vehicle. All of this is made possible by a system of wires that link various electrical components to each other and the power source, typically your car battery. In Volkswagens, one component of this system is more likely to fail over time compared to the others is the wiring harness. This is an assemblage of various cables responsible for transmitting electrical energy. When the wiring harness fails, this can spell disaster for your engine, as you may lose functions ranging from comfort, such as the air conditioner, to essentials like engine automation. Signs of Wiring Harness Failure There are a few signs of wiring harness failure to be aware of if your Volkswagen is climbing in years, or if you live in an extreme climate. One of the more obvious signs of electrical issues in general is a failure for the engine to turn over when you try to start your vehicle. While this symptom is indicative of several potential issues, wiring harness failure may be the root cause. Flickering and dimming lights can also be a sign of wiring harness failure. All of the lights on your vehicle depend on your car battery to an extent, especially the front and rear external lights. If your wiring harness is cracked or otherwise damaged, it’s possible your lights may be low or refuse to turn on at all. If the latter occurs, your vehicle will be unsafe to drive in dim light and at night, which is a sign for you to bring your vehicle to a trusted mechanic immediately. While a failure to provide electricity is a concern, more so is the danger when the wires short-circuit. The worst-case scenario for a failed wiring harness is if your engine catches on fire. While this is a rare occurrence, it is exceptionally dangerous. If your engine ever starts smoking black, and especially if there are flames coming from any part of your vehicle, exit the car immediately and get as far away as is safe before calling a tow truck. Causes of Wiring Harness Failure The most common cause of wiring harness failure is typical wear and tear over time. Volkswagen owners are most likely to notice this issue after their vehicle has climbed in years and miles. However, there are a few other factors that can contribute to wiring harness failure, as well. For instance, extreme weather conditions such as heat or cold can negatively affect the engine, depending on how your vehicle is stored. Temperature fluctuations can cause the rubber of the harness to expand and contract, eventually leading to permanent damage such as crumbling. The heat of your engine can also contribute to crumbling. While some of this naturally occurs over time, it’s also possible for a chronically overheating engine to inflict excess damage upon your wiring harness. What to Do if You Notice Wiring Harness Failure Wiring harness failure can not only be problematic but potentially incredibly dangerous. If ignored long enough, issues can compound from simple flickering lights to your engine catching on fire. That’s why it’s so important to not only know your Volkswagen, but to be prepared to bring it in to a certified mechanic as soon as issues arise. If you suspect issues in your Volkswagen’s wiring harness or any other components, bring your vehicle to Encore Motorcars of Sarasota today. We are proud to help drivers all throughout Sarasota and surrounding areas including Bradenton, Ellenton, Nokomis, Osprey, Parrish, and Venice, FL. Our certified mechanics are trained to treat all vehicles with the utmost respect and expert care. Furthermore, our technicians are all trained on the latest techniques and protocols to ensure that your vehicle leaves our garage in much better condition than when it came in. Moreover, most services and parts come with a warranty, which means you can feel comfortable knowing you made the right choice in mechanics.