Few things are more important to the performance of your vehicle than its brakes. Without brakes functioning in peak form, your car becomes much more difficult to drive, and you increase the chances of getting in an accident. But it’s not always easy to tell when your brakes are wearing down.

Puma's Auto Care, based in Brooklyn, NY, wants to share a few tips on how to tell when it’s time for a brake service:

Listen for the Shim

If your car starts making a screeching noise whenever you hit the brakes, take heed. That high-pitched sound is the metal shim, also known as the indicator, telling you that you need to replace your brake pads. If the sound of your shims becomes a regular occurrence, consult your mechanic for brake service. 

See for Yourself

Although many drivers don't know it, you can get a sense of how much life is left on your brake pads just by looking at your wheels. Your brake pads are visible behind your wheel's spokes. The pads should be at least 1/4 inch thick. If it looks like they're worn down past 1/4 inch of the pad, then they should be replaced. 

Poor Performance 

While the above-mentioned techniques are good ways to identify a car that needs new brakes, the most common sign is the responsiveness of the brakes themselves. If your car starts taking much longer than usual to slow to a stop, and braking in stop-and-go traffic becomes a problem, seek out brake service. 

Puma's Auto Care has been one of the premier auto repair shops in Brooklyn for over 17 years. The experienced team of mechanics can handle everything from transmission service and engine repair to exhaust and muffler issues. Visit their website to read more about the auto shop's services, or give the team a call at (718) 272-6306.