5 Signs You’re Due for Brake Service

Your brakes are something you forget about until you start to notice something funny happening. The reality is that most people don’t think about issues with their cars when they drive because as long as things are running smoothly, there’s zero reason to worry. However, when you start hearing or feeling things awry while driving — or pertinently braking — it’s time to wonder if your car is suffering from some of the common symptoms of brake problems.

While some signs of wearing brakes are obvious, some can be mistaken for other car issues. Let’s take a look at the warning signs of failing brakes and how it’s possible to prevent brake problems before they start.

Warning sign 1: Squealing sound

First on the list is likely the most common warning sign of failing brakes: a squealing sound when braking. This is your earliest sign you need brake surface as the pads have worn down enough that there’s barely any rubber left. While a slight squeak isn’t a cause for concern or an immediate rush to a service center for brake repair, ignoring it will cause that squeak to develop into the next sign of failing brakes.

Is it safe to drive with squeaky brakes?

For a short period of time, you aren’t in any immediate danger; however, it is advised to bring your car into a service center shortly after you notice the sound to avoid any damage to your vehicle.

Warning Sign 2: Grinding Sound

This veers into a much more costly repair if you don’t take care of the issue immediately. The grinding sound comes from the calipers (where the brake pads are attached) making contact with your rotors (the metal inner part of your wheels) and you’re effectively shaving your rotors down and guaranteeing you need to have those replaced as well as your brake pads.

Warning Sign 2.5: Rotor Grooves

Building on the grinding sound, after a while, if you inspect your rotors, you’ll see lines and grooves where the caliper is making direct contact to try to slow your car down. While it can be tough to remember to check your rotors before or after driving, there are other ways to spot the signs of failing brakes.

Why does my car vibrate when braking?

The brake pads have worn down to the point that they catch on the rotors in strange ways, causing your car to vibrate. Think of it as a needle skipping on a record player. Dirt and debris may also be stuck to the brake pads, creating an uneven surface.

Warning Sign 3: Listing Lazily while Braking

Now this is an example of signs of failing brakes being mistaken for another car issue. Typically, if your car veers to one side while you’re driving, the most likely answer is that you need an alignment. However, a misaligned vehicle will drift while driving; worn brakes will cause your car to drift while braking if you happen to notice this, head to a service center soon.

Warning Sign 4: Longer Times to Slow Down

Worn brakes require more pressure on the pedal and take longer to come to a complete stop. While you may be able to time your braking to avoid collisions for a short period of time, delaying or skipping brake service increases the risk of an accident because you can’t stop in time.

Warning Sign 5: Service Lights

Many newer vehicles have a brake service warning light on the dash triggered by sensors in the brake pads. You’ll have some time after the light comes on to schedule brake service and maintenance, but you shouldn’t put it off for long.

Bring Your Vehicle to a Blue Springs Service Center

If you’ve noticed any of the warning signs while driving in Blue Springs, Lake Tapawingo, Lee’s Summit, or greater Kansas City, bring it to our service center to have your brakes inspected and replaced. Contact us or call us at (877) 700-4784 to schedule an appointment and keep your car safe on the road.