Last night I was driving along in Dallas, TX where I live.
I was in a lane that was going straight that all of a sudden became a turning lane.
There was no lighting in that area or a sign that showed it was becoming a turn only lane.
So I had to make a choice, cut off the car in the other lane next to me and cause an accident with them, turn really hard into the turning only lane and possibly flip the car, or go over the curb and slam on the brake.
I ended up going up on this curb thing and it hit the tires really hard, I put on the brakes hard while doing so.
My girfriend and I were both okay, and so were the tires.
We got into the next lane when no cars were coming, and drove off.
A little while later I noticed that I had to put more pressure on the brakes in order for the car to slow down or stop.
Hours later the brake light came on the dashboard with an exclamation point.
Now I have to push the brakes to the floor and then some to stop the car.
I only have about 1100 dollars right now and I’m living from hotel to hotel.
What could the problem be?
Did I knock something loose?
How much would it be to fix it?
I think something is bent underneathe the car.
I have auto insurance with State Farm.
I have a 1998 Buick Lesabre (I know, it’s no hot rod)
I obviously don’t want to get into an accident.
I also have AAA (Triple A)
So I get free towing.
#1 by bob on August 9th, 2011
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If you have collision or comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy with State Farm, then it is possible you could get this repaired as a collision or comprehensive claim (possibly subject to a deductible).
It is hard to diagnose exactly what the nature of the damage to the vehicle’s braking system is. If you have a spongy pedal, more than likely you have air in the hydraulic brake lines somewhere in the system. You could also have damage to other parts.
You could possibly need new parts including but not limited to:
brake master cylinder
front brake calipers
rear brake calipers or wheel cylinders depending on if you have rear disc or rear drum brakes
brake discs or drums
brake pads or shoes
steel brake lines or rubber brake hoses
Your wheels and tires might be damaged and might need replacement, or at least need balancing. You might need a 2 or 4 wheel alignment.
I would take (probably tow) the car to a shop and have them give you an estimate on repairing the car.
Talk to your State Farm agent and find out if this can be claimed on your collision or comprehensive policy.
Depending on the estimate and your deductible, you may or may not decide to make the claim against your insurance. For example, if the repair will cost $2000 and you have a $500 deductible, you would likely make the claim. But if the repair will cost $1100 and you have a $1000 deductible, you should just pay it out of pocket and not make the claim.
#2 by Jerry on August 9th, 2011
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Most brake shops will give you a free estimate to diagnose your brake system. Visit at least 3 in your area to make sure the problem has been narrowed down, and get repair estimates. If once you have a fair assessment of the problem, and you don’t think you can pay someone for it; come back to this site and give us more details. Maybe we can help walk you through the repairs. I’ve done hundreds of brakes, and I’m sure the other answer es are very knowledgeable also.
Good luck and be safe….
JJ