If you're a driver, then brake maintenance should always be your top priority. According to AutoZone, the rule of thumb is to have your brakes inspected every 20,000 to 30,000 miles or every year or two. Besides working with a professional brake service at specific intervals, it also helps to familiarize yourself with the signs that your brake pads are failing. Here's what you need to know.



Your Brakes Start Making Noise

Your vehicle's braking system is made up of a complex system of components that must all be fully functional to ensure that your brakes work properly. When you hit those brakes and hear a squealing noise, this is a sign that they are protesting. Sometimes, you also hear a scraping or buzzing noise. Most likely, your brake pads have been worn down, which is to be expected over time. The sound you hear happens when the indicator runs against the rotor. You should keep in mind that if you hear a clicking noise, then your brake pads might be loose and rattling around. In any case, visiting a reputable brake service is essential to ensure the utmost safety.

You Struggle to Brake

Your brakes should be very responsive when you press them. However, if you start noticing that it's becoming harder to stop the car, then this is a key sign that you're dealing with brake fade. This issue generally happens when you're in the habit of braking for longer periods of time. This accelerates the wear and tear on your braking mechanism.

In the future, you should avoid making your brake pads come into contact with the rotors for extended periods. This contact results in overheating, and their function is reduced over time, making it harder for your car to come to a swift stop. A similar issue is when you feel like your car is out of control when braking. For instance, it can pull to one side when coming to a stop. This usually happens when one side of your vehicle's brake pads gets worn down faster than the other. It's important that you call a tow service if you notice brake issues. Driving yourself to an auto repair shop could pose serious danger to yourself and other drivers.

The Brake Pedal Shakes When You Step On It

Have you noticed that your brake pedals now have a habit of vibrating if you press on them? The issue could be caused by faulty brake pads that must be checked. When driving on the road, you need to be able to rely on your brakes at all times.

It's crucial to get your brake pads checked out by a reliable brake service whenever you notice these signs. On top of this, you should try to stick to your brake maintenance schedule as much as possible. Please get in touch with MTR Auto Service to hear more about our brake service and how we can help keep you safe on the road.