Three Signs That Indicate Your Vehicle's Brakes Are Wearing Out

Your brakes arguably play the largest role in keeping you safe when you're in your vehicle. When your pads are rotors are in proper working order, you'll be able to slow your vehicle to a safe and manageable speed when you're presented with a whole host of traffic and weather situations on the road. Visiting an auto shop to have your brakes replaced is paramount to your safety, but it's important to be able to identify the signs that suggest that professional care is needed. It's simply not enough to visit the shop after you've driven a certain number of miles, given that it's your approach to driving – more than the miles you drive – that influences how quickly your brakes wear out. Here are three signs that it's time to visit the auto shop.

Vibration From Your Pedal

Given that it's difficult to assess the degree to which your brakes are affecting your stopping distance as they wear, it's important to be able to notice other indicators. A simple one to catch is a vibrating brake pedal. You'll often notice a heavier vibration from your pedal when you're braking hard. This symptom suggests that your brake rotors have become warped, which is common over time due to the heat generated during the braking process. In some cases, your local auto shop will be able to turn your rotors on a specialized machine to save them; otherwise, they'll need to be replaced.

Loud Noises From Brakes

When they're getting worn out, your vehicle's brakes can make a range of different noises that should alert you to their condition. It's common for brakes to squeal, grind and click when you're using them. You'll often hear one sound first – for example, it's common for brake pads to squeal as an early warning sign that they're reaching the end of their life. Once they're worn excessively, they can commonly make a grinding sound. If you often drive with the radio turned on, it's a good habit to occasionally turn it off to help detect any brake noises.

Vehicle Trajectory During Braking

When they're in proper condition, your brakes should allow your vehicle to decrease its speed without altering its trajectory. When the brakes on either side are more worn than their counterparts, you'll commonly experience the vehicle traveling to one side of your lane when you apply the brakes. Continuing to drive with these brakes is dangerous, given the risk of being pulled toward the oncoming lane. It's best to visit your local auto shop right away for a brake job.

For more information and tips, contact a local auto shop like Budget Automotive Center.