Signs Your Brakes Are Failing

Brakes are one of the most important components of your vehicle, so you want to ensure they work!

Posted August 2, 2022

The complexity of your vehicle’s braking system and the significance of its routine maintenance are often overlooked, even though it’s one of your car’s most important safety features. Stop by your neighborhood Signature Tire anytime you suspect something is wrong with your brakes.

Signs of Brake Failure

If you notice stains under your car, you could have a brake fluid leak. You won’t be able to stop if your brake fluid reservoir is empty, so have it checked right away.

Check between the spokes of your wheels to take a look at your brake pads. If they appear to be very thin, it’s possible that your brake pads are worn and need to be replaced. Furthermore, if you hear a high-pitched or grinding sound, this could also mean that your brake pads need to be replaced. Likewise, you may have brake pads that are wearing unevenly if your car pulls to one side. Brake pads must be made of a special heat-resistant material because they generate a lot of heat when they come into contact with the rotors; therefore, they are prone to wear and tear over time.

In terms of the brake system, the rotors are the most visible part. They’re the flying saucer-shaped metal discs that can be seen behind the wheel’s hubcap. Heat and gases are produced when brake pads are forced against a rotor. When rotors are damaged or warped, your brake pads may not be able to make optimal contact with the rotors to slow you down. Metal-to-metal contact can damage your rotors if your brake pads are worn down to the point where they lose their pad material. Observe your brake rotors for any signs of damage, such as cracks, gouges, or irregularities. If your car vibrates when you brake and the ABS is not kicking in, this could indicate that your brake rotors have been distorted.

Get a Brake Inspection

To ensure that your braking system is working properly, we can conduct a thorough examination that includes us checking all the brake components:

Brake pads
Calipers
Rotors
Actuators
Hoses
Cables
Brake lines
Grease seals and bearings for the wheels
Fluid exchange in the master cylinder

While it’s a good idea to have your brakes checked out once a year, be sure to consult your owner’s manual to find out exactly how often you should have your brakes checked!

When necessary, you should flush your brake fluid. Brake fluid replacement intervals aren’t set in stone; they can range from every two years to every 40,000 kilometers, or only when necessary. Your manufacturer’s recommendations, your warranty requirements, and your mechanic’s advice will all play a role in this decision.

Driving Tips to Help Your Brake’s Longevity

Some things you can do in between brake inspections to keep your brakes in top shape are as follows:

Avoid stomping on your brakes by slowing down and anticipating stops.
Keep a three-second gap between you and the vehicle ahead of you to avoid having to slam on the brakes.
Check your brake fluid on a regular basis. If the fluid is dark, it is time to have the brakes flushed.

When it comes to vehicle maintenance and repairs, the brakes are the most critical. If you get your brakes inspected as per your manufacturer recommendations, watch for signs of brake failure, and drive consciously, your brakes will last longer and your car will be safer to drive. Signature Tire is here to help you with all your brake needs.

Questions? Our Advisors are Happy to Help!

If you have questions about anything you've read in this resource page, contact your nearest dealer for more information. We are passionate in assisting our customers make the best choices to keep their vehicles in tip-top shape and keep their families safe.