5 Warning Signs Your Car’s Brakes Need Attention

Your car’s brakes are one of the most critical safety features, and maintaining them is essential to ensure the well-being of you and your passengers. At Straight Away Towing in Raleigh, NC, we’ve seen firsthand the consequences of neglecting brake maintenance. That’s why we want to share with you five warning signs that indicate your car’s brakes need attention.

By being aware of these signs and addressing them promptly, you can avoid costly repairs and, more importantly, keep yourself and others safe on the road. If you notice any of these warning signs or have concerns about your car’s brakes, don’t hesitate to contact Straight Away Towing at (919) 234-5400 for expert advice and assistance.

Warning Sign 1: Squeaking, Squealing, or Grinding Noises

What’s That Sound?

One of the most noticeable and common signs that you should check on your car’s brakes is unusual noises coming from the braking system. Sometimes, you might hear a high pitched noise or a low pithed sound. It could resemble a squeaking sound or a grinding noise. If you hear any of these noises when you apply the brakes, it’s time to take action.

The Reasons Behind the Racket

Squeaking or squealing noises often occur when the brake pads already need a replacement because they have already worn down. Although they are meant to be durable, brake pads are bound to be worn-out due to use. Most brake pads have built-in wear indicators that produce a squealing noise when they become too thin. Grinding noises, on the other hand, usually indicate completely worn away brake pads. This leads to the metal backing plate brushing off against the rotor, causing damage.

Don’t Ignore the Noise

Ignoring these warning signs can lead to costly and more severe damage to your braking system. If left unchecked, worn brake pads can harm the rotors, requiring them to be resurfaced or replaced. In extreme cases, ignoring these noises can lead to brake failure, putting you and others at risk.

Warning Sign 2: Brake Pedal Feels Squishy

A Pedal That Doesn’t Feel Right

Know that feeling when you use the brake and something feels off? Some would describe it as being soft and squishy. When you press the brake pedal, it should feel firm and responsive. If the pedal feels soft, spongy, or reaches the floor with little resistance, there may be an issue with your braking system.

Possible Causes

A soft or squishy brake pedal can be caused by several factors, including the presence of air in your brake lines, a leak, or a problem with the master cylinder. These issues can reduce the effectiveness of your brakes, increasing stopping distance and putting you at risk.

The Risks of a Failing Pedal

Driving with a squishy or spongy brake pedal can be dangerous. In some cases, the brakes may fail altogether, leaving you unable to stop your vehicle. If you experience this warning sign, it’s essential to have your braking system inspected by a professional as soon as possible.

Warning Sign 3: Pulling to One Side When Braking

The Crooked Stop

If you notice your car pulling moving towards your left or right side you apply the brakes, it’s a clear indication that something is wrong with your braking system. This issue can be caused by several factors, including brake pads that are unevenly worn out, the caliper is stuck, or your brake hose has collapsed.

The Dangers of Uneven Braking

Is your car pulling to one side whenever you use your brakes? That can be challenging to control, especially in emergency situations. This issue can cause your vehicle to veer into oncoming traffic or off the road, putting you and others at risk. Additionally, uneven braking can cause premature wear on your tires and suspension components.

Preventing a Lopsided Stop

To prevent your car from having a lopsided stop, it’s essential to have your brakes inspected and serviced regularly. A professional technician can identify and correct issues like uneven brake pad wear, stuck calipers, or damaged brake hoses before they lead to more serious problems.

Warning Sign 4: Vibrations When Braking

The Shaky Stop

If you feel vibrations or pulsations in the brake pedal, steering wheel, or throughout the vehicle when you apply the brakes, it’s a sign that your braking system needs attention. These vibrations can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by a grinding or growling noise.

Warped Rotors and Other Culprits

The most common cause of brake vibrations is warped or unevenly worn rotors. When the rotors become damaged or worn, they can cause the brake pads to grab unevenly, resulting in vibrations. Other potential causes include contaminated brake pads, loose wheel bearings, or worn suspension components.

Addressing the Issue

Ignoring brake vibrations can lead to further damage and reduced braking performance. If you experience this warning sign, it’s crucial to have your braking system inspected by a professional. In many cases, the rotors can be resurfaced or replaced to eliminate the vibrations and restore proper braking function.

Warning Sign 5: Brake Warning Light on the Dashboard

The Illuminated Alert

Most modern vehicles are equipped with a brake warning light on the dashboard. This light typically illuminates when the parking brake is engaged, but it can also indicate other issues with the braking system. If the brake warning light comes on while driving, you should take it seriously.

Potential Problems

The brake warning light can illuminate for several reasons, including low brake fluid, worn out brake pads, or a malfunctioning ABS system. In some cases, the light may come on due to a faulty sensor or switch, but it’s always best to err on the side of caution and have the issue diagnosed by a professional.

When to Change Your Brakes

If the brake warning light comes on and stays on, it’s a clear sign that your brakes need attention. Depending on the underlying issue, you may need to have your brake pads replaced, your brake fluid topped off, or your ABS system serviced. Ignoring the warning light can lead to more serious problems and compromised braking performance.

Conclusion

Your car’s brakes are essential for your safety and the safety of others on the road. By being aware of these five warning signs and addressing them promptly, you can ensure that your braking system remains in good working order. Regular brake maintenance, including inspections and servicing, can help prevent these issues from occurring in the first place.

If your driving and notice any of these warning signs or have concerns about your car’s brakes, it is better to have them checked than to wait for worse things to happen. However, in case of any car emergency or car accident recovery in Raleigh, you should call us, Straight Away Towing at (919) 234-5400.