Signs Your Brakes Are Going To Fail

You’re driving south on Interstate 95 on the way home from work. There’s a big project keeping you at the office until after sunset. You see the dreaded sight of a traffic jam just ahead. You hit the brakes, and you hear the familiar sound of brakes squealing, reminding you it’s time to get your brakes checked. You say to yourself, “I’ll schedule an appointment with my mechanic tomorrow.” Tomorrow becomes the next day, you put off the errand for one more day, and next thing you know, you start hearing grinding sounds when you apply the brakes.

Putting off a brake job is a bad idea, and in the worst case scenario, you may cause an accident. Some tell-tale signs of failing brakes are obvious, but newer drivers may not take these symptoms seriously.

Here are the signs you should schedule an appointment with an automobile repair shop as soon as possible:

1. Squealing, Scraping, Scratching, Grinding Sounds

Most experienced drivers have heard brakes squealing. This is often the first warning for drivers, but eventually you will hear scraping, scratching, and grinding sounds if you don’t replace the brake pads.

2. Irregular Movement of the Automobile

Proper tire alignment is important for vehicle safety, but if the vehicle veers hard to the right or left, it could be your brakes. The steering wheel should not shake when you are braking. The brakes shouldn’t pulsate or sink to the floorboard.

3. Not Being Able To Stop Fast

If you find yourself having to allow more space to slow down at stop signs and stop lights, the brakes need to be serviced.

4. Dashboard Alert Warnings

Some vehicles will even flash a warning light if there is a problem with the brakes.

What To Do If Your Brakes Fail While Driving
If your brakes fail while you’re moving, activate your blinkers to alert other drivers. Let your foot off the accelerator. Maneuver your automobile to a shoulder or the right lane. Don’t forget to use your signals and look for other cars as you move over.

With manual vehicles, you should downshift to allow the engine to slow the car down. Pump the brakes to try to reduce speed. If you have anti-lock brakes, apply firm pressure to the brake pedal.

Lastly, as the car is slowing down, gradually engage the parking brake. Do not do this fast, as this may cause your wheels to lock up.

Remember, if you suspect there is a problem with your brakes, it is important to have them inspected by a certified automobile mechanic as soon as possible.