5 Signs of Brake Problems

Having brakes that are in good working order are essential for safe driving, especially when road conditions are poor or when coming to a quick stop in an emergency. Fortunately, your car is likely to give you early warning signs when there are problems with the brakes. Here is what to keep an eye and ear, out for.

1. Brake Light is Staying On

Depending on the make and model of your car, the brake light staying lit could mean several things. On some models the brake light indicates that the parking brake is set. If the light remains on when the parking brake is released, it could indicate a malfunction with the braking system, including pad wear, anti-lock braking malfunction, or other problem. Check your owner’s manual to see what specific issues the brake light could indicate.

2. Brakes Squealing or Squeaking

It’s normal for brakes to squeal occasionally. Rust on the rotors from lack of use, moisture and dirt, cold weather, all can cause temporary noises. Brake pads can also become glazed from use, causing squealing when braking.

Most cars are equipped with brake-pad wear indicators. As the pad surface wears down near replacement thickness, bits of metal come in contact with the rotor and emit a high-pitched noise when applying the brakes. This is designed to alert you that the brake pads need replacement.

3. Grinding Sounds

If you hear grinding or scraping noises when applying the brakes have the vehicle inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible. This may indicate metal-to-metal against the rotor or brake drum.

4. Soft or Spongy Brake Feel

A brake petal should provide relatively firm resistance without a lot of travel. If it feels soft or the petal is going down to the floorboard it could be caused by moisture in the brake fluid or problem with the master cylinder. Have the brakes inspected as soon as possible to find the cause of the problem and have the brakes fixed.

5. Car Pulls to One Side or Steering Wheel Vibrates While Braking

If the car pulls to one side it could be caused by a brake caliper on one side of the car that is either not activating or not releasing. Uneven brake pad wear can also cause a car to pull to one side. You may also notice that the steering wheel pulls or vibrates when applying the brakes.

If you have any of the brake warning signs above, play it safe and stop by Parkway Auto Care for a brake inspection. Help is right around the corner.