How Can I Tell if I Need New Brakes?

Your brakes are one of the most important components of your vehicle. If they’re faulty or worn, you should replace them quickly. Driving around on bad brakes can have disastrous consequences and could cost you thousands. All drivers in the Bay Area should know how to recognize the signs you need new brakes.

You can check if you need brake repair by listening to your brakes as you drive, looking for brake fluid leaks, and examining brake pad and rotor thickness. However, these are not the only methods of telling when your brakes need to be serviced.

Signs You Need New Brakes

Many drivers would love to know which signals indicate brake trouble before it’s too late. The following are a few warning signs to look out for:

• The brake pedal goes much closer to the floor than usual when you brake
• Your brake pedal pulsates when you step on it, or if there is a rhythmic “thumping” noise when you brake
• You hear loud squeaking and squealing noises coming from your brakes while braking
• You hear grinding noises coming from the parking brake when you apply it
• Your brake pedal feels “squishy”
• You hear a loud noise while driving and notice brake vibrations in the steering wheel and/or seat of the car

These signs could indicate metal brake pads just starting to wear down or damage to the brake rotors, calipers, and other components. However, brake pads made of material other than metal will exhibit signs different from the ones mentioned above.

If your brake pedal has become stiffer to push down or sinks closer to the floor when you brake, your brake fluid might need refilling. This can happen after long trips where you used your brakes a lot. If pedal stiffness or sinking happens only when you brake after the car has been sitting for some time, then you may have a different problem. Warped brake pads often cause abnormal pedal travel. This can make it harder to stop your car, so it is important to replace warped pads fast.

If you notice any of these signs, it might be time for new brake components. You should get your car inspected as soon as possible before you put yourself and others at risk of an accident due to reduced braking capabilities. Don’t wait another minute longer! Your safety depends on it!

Call Our Redwood City Auto Repair Shop

At Kirberg Motors, we offer a variety of car repair services, including brake pads and brake repairs. We work on a variety of automobiles, including German vehicles, and have been helping drivers in the Bay Area for years. Call us at (650) 591-8998 to schedule an appointment, or fill in our online form to get a free repair quote.