How Can You Tell If Your Brakes Need To Be Replaced

Your car's brake system is one of the most important components of your vehicle. It's what keeps you and your passengers safe out on the roads, so it pays off to stay informed about when these components need repair or replacement. Regular inspections for any damage or wear signs, as well as periodic maintenance such as brake fluid changes, can keep them functioning properly – but do you know the warning signs for when they need to be replaced? Knowing the signs that indicate it may be time to go to your local auto mechanic and replace your brakes can help ensure they remain reliable each time you hit the road. 

• Squealing or screeching noises: 

Squealing or screeching noises are usually a good indication that you need to have your brakes replaced. Sometimes your brakes can screech during damp weather conditions, but if that sound doesn’t go away after the weather changes and it’s becoming routine, you need to have a local auto mechanic check out your brakes. 

This squealing noise is typically caused when your brake pads have been worn down. The sound you are hearing is the metal attachment on the brake pad hitting against the backing plate. If you leave it unchecked, not only will the repair cost be more expensive, but you’ll start experiencing a grinding noise. 

• Metallic grinding and growling: 

If you are hearing grinding and rumbling noises when you brake, your brake pads are likely not just worn down but also making contact with the discs or drums. Your brakes will need to be replaced as soon as possible. Some cars have built-in metal wear indicators that will make a loud noise to alert you that it’s time for a brake repair. 

• Thin Brake Pad

Outside of hearing alarming noises, you can visibly check to see how thick your brake pad is. You’ll want to look between the spokes of your wheels to locate the brake pad compressed against your brake rotor. If the friction material appears to be less than ¼ inch or 6.4 mm thick, you’ll at least want to have your brakes inspected by your local auto mechanic, especially if it has been a while since your last visit. 

• Vibration when braking: 

If you are feeling your car shaking when you apply pressure on your brakes, it means there’s probably something wrong with your brakes. The most likely cause is that the rotors, which play a crucial role in helping your car reach a complete stop, are no longer smooth. When this happens, the brakes will work unevenly causing the vibrations you are experiencing.

• Taking longer to stop: 

When driving you need to be able to make quick stops in emergency situations, if your brakes are taking longer than they should to stop you need to find auto motor repair near me. There are multiple reasons your brakes would experience less than ideal performance but the primary two are if your brake pads are worn down or if your brake fluid is low. If you have low brake fluid, you might have a leak in your brake hose. 

• Indicator lights: 

Indicator lights are one of the most common and noticeable signs that you are in need of having your brakes serviced. On most cars, there are two brake warning lights: the antilock braking system, or ABS, and the brake warning light. However, you won’t always see a warning light when there is a problem and they can also turn on when your parking brake is on. If a warning light is on while in motion, you will want to have your car looked at by your local auto mechanic. You should check your owner’s manual to see if your vehicle has these warning lights. 

How long do brake pads last? 

It depends on multiple factors such as the driver, vehicles, and traffic. If you drive in heavily trafficked areas where you are engaging your brakes often, your brakes will wear out more quickly than someone who commonly drives in rural areas or on highways. Your brake pads will also wear out faster if you frequently ride on the brakes. Brakes are typically thought to last between 30,000–35,000 miles, although may last 80,000 miles with less demanding circumstances. 

Reach Out to Poston Motors About Your Brakes Today

Having brake issues with your vehicle can be a stressful and potentially dangerous situation to be in. Choosing the right local auto mechanic to fix your brakes can make all the difference in the world when it comes to your safety on the road. It's essential to hire a trusted and experienced local auto mechanic that can diagnose and repair any brake problems quickly and efficiently. Poston Motors is more than just a repair service—we’re a trusted ally in the ongoing care and maintenance of your vehicle. So when it's time for your next auto motor repair near me, trust Poston Motors, a local professional who knows your car inside and out.