Your brakes are one of the most important safety components in your vehicle. Without a properly functioning braking system, your car’s stopping power is compromised, putting you and others at risk. At Brentwood Transmissions And Auto Care, we want to help you recognize the warning signs of brake problems and ensure your vehicle stops when you need it to.
In this guide, we’ll cover the most common brake issues, how to identify them, and when it’s time for a brake inspection or replacement.
1. Squeaking or Grinding Noises
A high-pitched squeaking or grinding noise when you apply the brakes is one of the first signs that your brake pads are worn out.
What It Means:
Squeaking usually indicates worn brake pads that need replacement.
Grinding may mean the brake pads are completely worn down, causing metal-to-metal contact, which can damage the rotors.
🔧 Solution: Have your brake pads checked and replaced before they cause further damage.
2. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal
If your brake pedal feels soft or spongy when you press it, there could be an issue with the brake fluid or air in the brake lines.
What It Means:
Air in the brake lines reduces braking efficiency.
Low or contaminated brake fluid affects the hydraulic pressure needed for proper braking.
🔧 Solution: Get your brake fluid checked and flushed if necessary.
3. Car Pulling to One Side While Braking
Does your car drift to one side when you press the brakes? This could be a sign of uneven brake pad wear, a stuck caliper, or brake fluid contamination.
What It Means:
Uneven brake pad wear can cause braking imbalance.
A stuck brake caliper prevents one side from functioning correctly.
Low brake fluid or air bubbles in the system affect performance.
🔧 Solution: A brake system inspection can pinpoint the cause and prevent further damage.
4. Vibrations or Shaking When Braking
If your steering wheel or brake pedal vibrates when you hit the brakes, it’s often a sign of warped brake rotors.
What It Means:
Overheated rotors can become uneven, causing a shaky braking experience.
Improperly torqued lug nuts or worn suspension components can also contribute to vibrations.
🔧 Solution: A mechanic can resurface or replace the rotors to restore smooth braking.
5. Brake Warning Light on Your Dashboard
Your dashboard’s brake warning light is there for a reason—don’t ignore it!
What It Means:
Low brake fluid levels
Worn brake pads
A problem with the anti-lock braking system (ABS)
🔧 Solution: If the brake warning light stays on, get your vehicle inspected immediately to prevent brake failure.
6. Longer Stopping Distances
If your car takes longer to stop than usual, your brakes may not be functioning at full capacity.
What It Means:
Worn-out brake pads reduce stopping power.
Old or contaminated brake fluid decreases braking efficiency.
🔧 Solution: A full brake inspection can determine whether you need new pads, rotors, or a brake fluid flush.
How Often Should You Get Your Brakes Checked?
Brake inspections should be done every 10,000 to 15,000 miles or whenever you notice symptoms of brake problems. Brake pads typically need replacement every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, depending on driving habits and conditions.
If you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic or tow heavy loads, you may need more frequent brake service.
Schedule Your Brake Inspection at Brentwood Transmissions And Auto Care
At Brentwood Transmissions And Auto Care, we offer:
Brake Inspections & Diagnostics
Brake Pad & Rotor Replacements
Brake Fluid Flushes
📅 Don’t wait until it’s too late! Schedule your brake service today.
📍 Visit us in Brentwood, CA
📞 Call us now at 925-634-1615
Stay safe on the road with properly maintained brakes!
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