How to Tell if Your Brakes Are on the Verge of Failure

One of the most important things drivers rely on is the braking system. Poor brakes are a precursor to potentially dangerous situations. Diagnosing failing brakes requires looking for clues that the

brakes are in need of repair. Vehicles have either a disc braking system or a drum braking system; each type decelerates the vehicle using friction generated from a heat-resistant material between the brake shoe/pad and the brake system. Over time, the brake pads will wear down to levels that make the vehicle unsafe to drive. Before this happens, there are several telltale signs to pay attention to.

Squealing or Grinding Sounds

The distinctive sound of squealing or grinding when you press on the brake pedal is a sure sign that the brake pads are deteriorating. When the material is worn-out, it produces either one or both sounds. You may also hear a clicking sound when braking. When any of these conditions occur, the brakes need to be checked by an expert immediately. If the sound is more “metal on metal” like a loud shrill screech, this means there is no longer a viable brake pad in place. Slowing down or stopping the vehicle in that state is dangerous and could cause an accident. 

Physical Reactions to Braking

If you step on the brakes while driving and there’s an unusual response, there could be something wrong. An example is if you press down on the brake pedal and it takes the car a longer distance than normal to come to a stop. Another indicator is if the brake pedal feels soft or squishy — like a sponge — when you step on it. Also, the brake pedal should not feel light or in poor contact with the braking system. If it does, then it’s time to call your auto-mechanic for a system check, repair, or replacement.

Shaky Movement When Braking

There is also a situation where the disc has become uneven. When this happens, the vehicle will not stop smoothly. Instead, it may shudder while stopping. Because an uneven disc can cause the brake pads to deteriorate at a faster rate, it should be repaired as soon as possible. In addition, if your vehicle pulls to the left or right, it could also mean there is uneven wear on the brake pads. On the other hand, the brake fluid may have sprung a leak. Both situations require immediate attention.

Additional Warning Signs

If you notice corrosion or rust around the brakes, they need urgent attention. Take note of the ABS warning light on the dashboard. This lets you know when the anti-lock braking system has a problem — don’t ignore it. If your vehicle experiences sluggish acceleration, it may mean that the brakes are not releasing correctly. Continuing to drive a car in this state can damage the brakes even further.

With a regular service check by a professional mechanic, potential problems can be identified and addressed before they turn into a dangerous situation.

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