Your brakes are the most important safety system on your vehicle. Knowing the warning signs of brake problems could save your life — and save you from expensive repairs down the road.
Squealing or squeaking noises when braking are often the first sign of worn brake pads. Most pads have built-in wear indicators that produce this sound when the pads are getting thin.
Grinding sounds are more serious — they usually mean the pads are completely worn and metal is contacting metal. This damages your rotors and makes brake repair significantly more expensive.
If your car pulls to one side when braking, you may have a stuck caliper, uneven pad wear, or a hydraulic issue. This is a safety concern that should be addressed immediately.
A soft or spongy brake pedal can indicate air in the brake lines, a fluid leak, or a failing master cylinder. If your pedal goes to the floor, stop driving and have the vehicle towed.
Vibration in the steering wheel or brake pedal when stopping usually indicates warped rotors. This happens from excessive heat and can be fixed by resurfacing or replacing the rotors.
Don’t ignore the brake warning light on your dashboard. It could indicate low brake fluid, a system malfunction, or worn pads. Get it checked right away.