As a driver, you take a big gamble when you head out on the road with faulty brakes by putting you at risk of injury. It’s important to know when brake repair is necessary, so you’re not putting it off. Below are a few telltale signs of letting you know when it’s time to have your brakes serviced by an auto mechanic.

How to Know You Need Brake Repair

1. Worn Pads

Brake pads are designed to withstand heavy use, but over time they wear thin, which reduces your car’s braking capability. Check the thickness of your pads by looking between the caliper and rotor to gauge if the distance is at least a quarter of an inch; anything thinner means that you need to have your pads changed.

2. Unusual Sounds

Listen for any strange noises, like squealing, screeching, or grinding when you hit the brakes. This means that the brake pads are worn out from grinding against the calipers and need replacement. Unusual sounds could also hint that your rotors are rusty and have to be resurfaced or fully changed by an auto technician.

3. Pulling

If you feel that your vehicle is pulling to one side while applying the brakes, the problem can be traced to a stuck caliper. Other causes include a collapsed brake hose or uneven wear on the pads. Since pulling doesn’t always hint at brake-related issues, have your vehicle checked for any underlying problems, such as worn tires, wheel misalignment, and suspension troubles.

4. Vibration or Wobbling

Be wary of vibrating or wobbling sensations when you brake, especially if the anti-lock brake system is disengaged. This may indicate warped rotors, often caused by extreme stress and friction from towing heavy loads or going down steep roads. Brake rotors should have smooth, even surfaces, so they’ll need resurfacing to get fixed.  

5. Reduced Responsiveness

A brake pedal that feels softer than usual, or needs to be pressed down further before engaging, can indicate one of three things: worn pads, air leak, or a fluid leak in your braking system. To check for brake fluid leaks, place a piece of cardboard underneath the chassis and look for puddles of oil. For a better diagnosis, bring your car to an auto repair shop to check for issues with the brake line or vacuum system.

As soon as you notice any of these red flags, have your vehicle checked by the brake repair experts at H & S Tire & Auto Center. Serving western St. Charles County, MO, their team of ASE-certified auto mechanics are dedicated to providing excellent car maintenance and repair work. Call (636) 327-5225 to get an estimate or check out their website for service details.