Signs You Need New Brakes

Brakes are arguably the most critical safety system in your vehicle. While accelerating gets you where you need to go, your ability to stop safely and reliably is what keeps you, and others, out of harm’s way. Like all components of your car, brakes wear out over time and need regular maintenance to perform at their best.

So how do you know when it's time to replace your brakes? Let’s break it down.

Common Signs Your Brakes Need Replacing

Brake pads are designed to wear down over time. These components have a layer of friction material that gradually gets thinner the more you drive. Here are some of the most common signs that it’s time to replace them: 

1. Squealing Noises

A high-pitched squeal when braking is usually caused by a wear indicator tab or squealer tab built into the brake pad. It’s designed to warn you when the pads are getting low.

2. Grinding Sounds

If the squeal turns into a metal-on-metal grinding noise, the friction material may be completely worn away, exposing the pad’s backing plate.

3. Vibration or Pulsation

When brake rotors are warped or the pads are badly worn, you may feel your vehicle shake when you press on the pedal.

4. Steering Wheel Shimmy

If the front brakes are the issue, you may feel a side-to-side shimmy in the steering wheel, especially at higher speeds or during harder braking. This can be dangerous in poor driving conditions.

5. Longer Stopping Distances

Worn brakes lose their ability to grip the rotor or drum effectively, meaning it takes longer to come to a complete stop.

6. Brake Warning Light

Many modern vehicles have brake pad sensors that illuminate a warning light on the dashboard when the pads are worn down to a critical thickness.

What Happens If You Ignore Brake Problems?

Continuing to drive with worn-out brakes can lead to:

• Excessive rotor wear, which requires more expensive repairs.

• Brake caliper damage, which could compromise the entire system.

• Brake line stress and fluid leaks.

• Increased risk of accidents due to extended stopping distances and reduced control.

In short, neglecting your brakes is a safety hazard—both for you and everyone else on the road. Regularly checking your brakes and addressing warning signs early is essential for safe driving. Whether it’s a squeal, a shake, or a warning light, your car is telling you something—don’t ignore it.

Need new brake pads? Heatleys stocks a full range of brake components and tools to help keep your vehicle safe and reliable.