7 Signs of Serious Brake Issues

technician repairing brakesYour car’s braking system is one of the most important parts of your vehicle — yet it's often overlooked. Don’t wait until you notice a problem like pulling to one side, strange noises, or vibrations when stopping. Regular maintenance and early detection can save you time, money, and potential danger on the road.

How Do Vehicle Brakes Work?

Brakes are essential for safe driving. Most modern cars use disc brakes, which consist of a rotor (a metal disc) behind each wheel and a caliper that clamps down on the rotor when you press the brake pedal. This friction slows the wheel and stops the car. The brake pads inside the caliper wear down over time due to this constant contact. If they become too thin, your braking performance drops, and you may hear unusual sounds or feel less control when stopping.

Squeaking, Grinding, or Rubbing

These sounds are not normal and usually mean your brake pads are worn out. If the pads are completely gone, the metal parts of the caliper and rotor will rub together, causing damage to the rotors. This can lead to expensive repairs, so it's best to address these issues as soon as you hear them.

Vibrations When Braking

If you feel a vibration in the steering wheel or brake pedal while stopping, it could be a sign that your brake pads have worn down and your rotors are warped. It might also indicate a misalignment issue. Either way, it’s important to get your brakes checked before the problem worsens.

Clicking Noises

A clicking sound when braking usually means something has come loose. It might be the clip or pin that holds the brake pad in place. This can affect the overall performance of your brake system and should be inspected by a professional to prevent further damage.

Need to Press Harder to Stop

If you find yourself pushing harder on the brake pedal or needing more pressure to stop, your brake pads are likely worn. This is a warning sign that you need to have your brakes inspected. Ignoring this can lead to reduced responsiveness and increased risk of an accident.

Another thing to watch for is decreased brake responsiveness. This could indicate a leak in your brake fluid or air in the system. To check, look under your car after it's parked. If you see a dark, oily substance pooling underneath, it might be a sign of a leak.

Vehicle Pulls to One Side

While pulling can sometimes be caused by an alignment issue, it becomes a concern when it happens during braking. Uneven brake pad wear, a faulty caliper, or contaminated brake fluid could be the cause. Over time, this can put extra stress on your car's suspension and steering components.

Brake Warning Light

If the brake light on your dashboard comes on, it’s a clear signal that something is wrong. You should check your brake pads through the wheel spokes. They should be at least a quarter inch thick. If they’re worn down, it’s time for a replacement.

Burning Smell

A burning smell from your car is a serious warning. It could mean your brakes are overheating or that something is seriously wrong with the system. In this case, do not drive the car — call for roadside assistance immediately.

If you're noticing any of these signs, don't ignore them. Contact DaSilva’s Auto Body for a full inspection and expert advice. Whether it's a simple fluid change or more complex repairs, we're here to help keep your car safe and reliable. Give us a call today at our Naugatuck location to schedule your appointment.

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