What Are Some Indications That Your Vehicle Needs a Brake Job?

When a vehicle's braking system is in need of repair and/or service, it is common for various brake system symptoms to result. While not all symptoms of brake system dysfunction point to the need for a complete brake job, many of them do. What follows is a brief list of the most common indications that a vehicle is in need of a brake job.

Squeaky Brakes

Squeaky, noisy brakes are often times the most prevalent sign that a vehicle needs a brake job. As brake pads wear out and degrade, they cause excessive friction and vibration to develop between the brake pads and the brake rotor, which in turn causes brakes to squeak.

Metallic Brake Noise

Loud, grinding, metallic brake noise is a classic symptom of brake pads that have completely worn to the point of exposing their metallic wear indicators, which are small strips of metal designed to rub against the spinning brake rotors when the brakes are applied, thus drawing attention to the need for brake pad replacement.

Reduced Braking Power

As brakes become worn, they lose their braking power, which reduces a vehicle's stopping ability. A vehicle experiencing reduced braking power is a telltale sign that it may need a brake job.

Pulsating Pedal

Many times a vehicle braking system in need of repair and/or adjustment will cause a pulsating brake pedal. A pulsating brake pedal can be felt when the brake pedal is pressed, and it is normally caused by warped brake rotors or a malfunctioning brake master cylinder.

Soft, Spongy Brake Pedal

A soft, spongy brake pedal is a strong indication that a vehicle needs its brakes serviced and/or checked. Abnormal brake pedal feel is a common symptom of brake system dysfunction and may be a sign that a vehicle needs a brake job.