Signs of Brake Issues

Vehicles have many different vital components. However, perhaps none of them are quite as important as car brakes. If failing begins to occur in pads, calipers, or something else, the driver won’t be able to slow down or stop efficiently. And if that happens, the driver could hit a pedestrian, car, or object like a tree. Don’t fret, though, as your brakes probably aren’t going to go out all at once. Instead, they’ll likely present some symptoms of failing first.

Then, when they show up, you’ll know it’s time to take your vehicle to a shop. A mechanic can then service your car brakes to prevent them from failing, and you can say goodbye to those symptoms. So, now the only question is, "What are the signs?" Let’s go through some of the early signs of brake issues so you’ll have time to address them and ensure your ride always stops on time.

Squealing, Squeaking, or Grinding Noises

Sometimes, all you need is your ears to detect symptoms of failing car brakes. If the sounds you hear are high-pitched squeaks or squeals, the brake pads might need to be replaced. Today’s pads have indicators that rub against the rotors when the pads become low or worn. Hence, squeaking and squealing aren’t just annoying sounds. Rather, they tell you to take action.

What about a grinding noise? That’s another sound that your ears could detect. This is usually a sign that metal components are rubbing together, which should never be the case. Thus, if you hear grinding sounds, don’t wait. Instead, seek service right away.

A Spongy Brake Pedal

Most of the time, your brake pedal likely feels firm, or it should, at least. So, if you push it with your foot and it instead feels soft or spongy, your car brakes could soon fail. Such symptoms won’t simply get better on their own, but they will worsen. That’s why you need to make it a point to get the problem fixed promptly, or the next time you push your brake pedal, it will fail.

Vehicle Pulls to One Side

The symptoms of failing car brakes vary. However, one sign that is usually constant is the vehicle pulling to one side when braking. This typically happens when only one brake set is working on the front. Be careful if this sign becomes apparent because the last thing you need is for a collision to occur from your vehicle pulling you into another lane.

Obnoxious Burning Smells

A tell-tale sign of overheated brakes is a sharp, burning, chemical-like odor. If your nose detects this smell, check to see if you left the parking brake on. When that’s the case, you might be able to release it to correct the problem. But, this odor may also be caused by a malfunctioning caliper, and you could need service soon.

If you’re currently experiencing symptoms of car brakes failing, don’t delay looking into the situation. That could thrust you and your passengers into harm’s way. So rather, contact the service department at Nucar Kia of Tilton in Tilton, NH. Make an appointment and let our expert techs resolve the issue. Then, you’ll rest easy, knowing that your vehicle’s brakes work how they are intended to.