FrançaisEnglishIt’s a typical day on the road, when you notice something feels “off” about your brakes. Brakes are a critical safety system and will warn you when brake service is required. Luckily, knowing what to look and listen for can save you from an expensive repair or a potential emergency on the road.
In this blog post, we’ll cover the most common signs and symptoms that it’s time to replace your brakes.
If you hear squealing or screeching when you press on the brake pedal, it’s a sign that the wear indicator tab on your brakes is telling you it’s time to have your brakes inspected. While this doesn’t mean you have an immediate braking emergency on your hands, do take it as a warning and address it as soon as possible.
If you ignore squealing or screeching brakes, it will progress to grinding. A grinding sound when applying the brakes is a sign your brake pads are fully worn and there is metal-on-metal contact. At this stage, your rotors may be damaged. Take your vehicle in immediately for repairs.
If your brake pedal feels soft or spongy when you apply pressure, you may have air in your brake lines, or your brake fluid is low or has degraded.
On the other hand, a hard pedal requiring more force could suggest a vacuum booster problem or glazed brake pads.
Vibration or pulsation when braking means your rotors are warped (not just corroded). The only time that pulsing or vibration is normal is when your ABS engages during emergency braking situations.
You can easily diagnose the health of your brakes by checking your brake pads, which sit against your rotor. If your brake pads are less than thick, it’s time to replace them.
While you’re there, evaluate the condition of your rotors. Deep grooves, a visible lip on the outer edge of the rotor, or heavy surface rust that doesn’t clear after stopping the vehicle a few times are signs that your rotors are worn.
Brake fluid should be clear to light yellow in colour if it’s fresh. But fluid that has a dark or murky colour signals it’s time for a change.
Because road salt during the winter can accelerate corrosion on your rotors and calipers, inspect your brake system every time you swap out your winter tires.
Apart from keeping your eyes and ears out for potential warning signs, there are a few other common tells that your brakes need attention.
If your vehicle is pulling to one side and it’s hard to steer in the opposite direction, this could be a symptom of a seized caliper or uneven brake pad wear.
A strong burning smell after driving may mean your brakes are overheated. While this is common after aggressive driving or long descents, consistent burning can signal glazed pads or a stuck caliper.
Finally, keep an eye out for dashboard warning lights for low brake fluid, worn pads, parking brake issues, or hydraulic failure. Never ignore a dashboard light, even if your brakes “feel fine.”
Achieve a good cadence by inspecting your brakes at least twice a year, during your seasonal tire change. At a minimum, check them every six months.
Inspect your brake fluid at the same time. However, replace the fluid every two years or at the interval your owner’s manual suggests, even if the level looks fine.
Regular and proactive inspections are far cheaper and easier to DIY than reactive brake repair. Plus, it could play a key role in keeping you and others safe while on the road.
Staying alert to the potential brake warning signs usually means a simpler, less expensive fix. Responsive brakes are essential for safe driving, and you can ensure that with a quick inspection.
For questions about choosing the right brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid for your vehicle, visit your local NAPA Auto Parts store to speak with one of our automotive experts. You can also browse our wide selection of brake components at www.NAPACanada.com.
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