Common Signs Your Brakes Need Service

If your brakes aren’t serviced regularly, the potential outcome may prove to be deadly. Brake parts have a finite lifespan and will have to be serviced and replaced to continue working properly.

The good news is your vehicle is going to give some clear signs that your brakes need service. In some situations, the problems will be harmless noises that don’t need any type of extensive repairs, but that’s not always the case.

Remember, your brakes are one of the most important safety components in your vehicle. If you notice any of the warning signs of a problem that are listed here, you should get your vehicle to the professionals right away. This will help you drive safer and avoid more expensive damage down the road.

The Brake Light is On

If you notice one of the yellow or red brake indication lights on your vehicle’s dash, it probably means you are past due for an inspection. It may also be a sign that the smart electronics in your vehicle are letting you know about a problem that is present.

If your parking brake is engaged, it may also cause the light to come on. Make sure you release this fully to confirm that’s not the problem – after all, that is an easy and cost-free fix. It’s also a good idea to learn what all the dashboard lights mean so that you know if a problem with your vehicle is present.

Metallic Squeal While Moving

If you begin to hear a squealing that stops if you hit the brakes, it is probably the wear indicators for your brake pad. These are made out of steel. This means they will begin to make this sound when they begin to come in contact with the rotor.

Essentially, this is your car’s built-in warning system letting you know the brake pads are worn out and that they need to be replaced. Make sure to address this problem before rotor damage occurs, which can be relatively expensive.

Grinding Sound When the Brakes are Applied

If you feel a grinding sensation when you press the brakes, it may mean several things. There may be a rock or gravel caught in the brake caliper unit, which is a problem that is pretty easy to remedy. However, you may have also gone so long without service that the brake pads are completely worn through. If you begin to hear metal on metal, it may be causing grooves in your brake rotor. This isn’t good and may be an expensive repair if you don’t address the issue right away.

Grinding may also indicate that there is a lack of lubrication if your vehicle has rear drum brakes. The brake shoe, which is what slows your vehicle down, may be scraping on the metal contact points, such as the backing plate, because of rust. If you have noticed any of the brake related issues mentioned here, it is a good idea to contact a professional service shop for help. They can determine the underlying issue and make the needed repairs.