Four Signs It’s Time to Schedule Your Brake Service

Brakes are one of the most important parts of the car when it comes to your safety and the safety of those around you. Brakes don’t last forever, and you will need to replace them when they start to wear out. Here are some signs that indicate you need new brakes.

High-Pitched Screeching Sound
If you hear a high-pitched squealing or screeching when you press down on the brake pedal, it most likely means that the indicator is warning that the brakes need attention. The indicator is a small metal shim that will make noise when the brakes wear thin. It is often loud enough to hear with the windows up, but not if you blast your music. Make sure to turn it down every once in a while to listen to your car. If you hear this noise on a regular basis, bring the car to a mechanic.

Less Responsive Braking
If you press down on the brake pedal and it just doesn’t seem like the car comes to a stop as quickly as it usually does, it could mean that there is a leak in the system. There are two different places where the brake system could have a leak. A brake fluid leak will leave behind a small puddle under the car that looks similar to oil but is not as slimy.

Vehicle Pulls to One Side
If you can feel the nose of the car pulling over to one side when driving down a straight road, it could mean that the brakes are not wearing evenly. It might even mean that there is something in the brake fluid. If this is the case, bring the car to a mechanic so they can check it out.

The car might need to have the fluid drained and then replaced with new fluid, or the brakes might need an adjustment. It is important to get the car checked if it starts pulling to one side because if you leave it alone, it can cause other damage to the vehicle.

Vibration in the Brake Pedal
When you press down on the brake pedal, it should go down smoothly. If you feel a vibration when pressing down, it could mean there is a problem with the brake pad or warped rotors. Warped rotors are often the result of long and severe braking. This occurs in hilly areas and with vehicles that do a lot of towing. The extended use of the brakes causes a lot of friction which then causes warping. This means that the brake pads don’t touch the surface evenly and then you feel the vibration of the uneven pads.

These are some of the most common signs that your brakes need work or need replacing. Make sure to listen to your car and take it to a mechanic if you hear or feel something going on. They’ll be able to inspect your vehicle and quickly identify any brake issues.