Whenever you need to stop your vehicle, you trust that your brakes will do the job. But since this system remains mostly hidden within the wheels, you can’t always tell by your eyes alone if you need professional brake service or repairs. However, if you pay attention to the ways your vehicle is behaving, you can often catch these issues early on and correct them before they get worse—and more expensive to fix.

5 Symptoms of Bad Brakes

1. Unreliable Stopping

Brake pads usually last about 50,000 miles before they need to be replaced. If you’ve reached this marker, the pads will wear down, harden, and be unable to effectively grip the brake’s rotor, which in turn, makes it more difficult to come to a full stop. If it’s taking you longer to stop, or you feel that you have to press harder on the pedal, you may need new pads. 

2. Screeching

Noisy brakes aren’t always a cause for concern. Sometimes, squeaky sounds are due to moisture—such as rainwater. However, if the screeching persists and occurs every time you slow down, the brake pads should be replaced.

3. Vibrations

If your brake pads have worn down and hardened, they will generate extra heat every time they are applied to the rotor. Over time, this heat will warp the calipers and rotors. As these components change shape, they won’t move properly, resulting in shakiness or vibrations every time you stop the vehicle.

4. Leaks

Brake line fluid is necessary to create hydraulic pressure, which is used to compress rotors and slow the wheels to a stop. If this fluid leaks, you may not be able to stop safely or at all.

Common signs of a fluid leak include oily liquid spills near the wheels and soft brake pedals. If you notice any of these issues, don’t drive. For your safety, have the car towed to an auto repair shop that can pinpoint and repair the leak.   

5. Poor Steering

If your steering wheel tugs to one side, your steering system may not be to blame. In some cases, this problem can be due to one of many brake issues that require professional care—such as frozen cables or fluid leaks.   

Although brake problems can be alarming, Springdale Automotive is here to provide stress-free solutions to keep you safe on the road. Serving Cincinnati drivers, this mechanic is equipped to provide complete vehicle diagnostics and assess the condition of the brakes. Whether your car needs its pads replaced or it has a fluid leak, these professionals will carefully address the issue to restore your stopping power. To learn more about their capabilities, visit this West Chester, OH car service center online. You can also request 24/7 towing and make service appointments by calling (513) 860-2760.