Warning Signs for Damaged Brakes

As far as safety goes in your vehicle, good brakes will be towards the top of your list. Therefore, it is important to know the signs from your vehicle that point to needed maintenance or repair on your brakes.

A car's brake system needs to be checked at least once a year. The check-up should include looking for brake lining wear, fluid levels, rotor thickness, hose and brake line condition, brake and dash warning lights, and a test drive to see what other problems there could be.

Drivers need to be alert to the signs from their vehicles that there are brake problems.

Funny noises coming from your brakes are a big indicator that something is wrong. Abnormal noises mean your brakes are worn down and need to be checked. Grinding noises and brake dust or metal flakes on the wheels are also signs you need a brake inspection.

Another way you can tell if something is wrong is by the way the brake pedal feels. If there is shaking or the car pulls a certain way when you are braking, there is a problem.

Brake pedals that feel mushy usually don't have enough fluid and will indicate wear on your brakes. Check brake fluid supplies and top them off if they are low.

If your vehicle's ABS light has gone off, it may be because the wheel sensors have detected build up of metal particles from your brakes.

Even if you care for your brakes well, they will probably have to be replaced every 20,000-30,000 miles. Brake systems should also be flushed and fluid replaced every couple years.