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Have you ever wondered if your brakes are as safe and reliable as they should be? It’s easy to take the safety of your brakes for granted but if something goes wrong with them, you should know that they may put your safety on the road at risk. 

Hence, if you’ve noticed strange sounds, unusual sensations, or changes in the performance of your braking system, it may be time to pay a reliable automotive repair specialist a visit. 

In this piece, we’ll list the key signs that your brakes need immediate repair, helping you stay safe and avoid costly damage.

Squeaking or Squealing Noises

If you hear high-pitched squeaking or squealing sounds when you press the brake pedal, it could be a sign that your brake pads are worn out. 

Most brake pads have a built-in wear indicator, a metal tab that emits a high-pitched sound to warn you that the pads are getting thin and need replacing. 

When you hear this sound, don’t wait too long to get it check. If you ignore the sound, the metal of the caliper could start grinding against the rotor, which can lead to much more expensive repairs. 

Reach out to an autorepair expert and have them inspect your vehicle as soon as possible. 

Grinding Sounds

If you hear a grinding sound when applying the brakes, it likely means that the brake pads have completely worn down and the metal components are scraping against each other. This can cause damage to the brake rotor, which might need to be replaced as well.

If you hear grinding, it’s time to act quickly; get your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible to avoid further damage. 

Warning Light on Your Dashboard

Most modern vehicles come with a brake warning light on the dashboard that will illuminate if there’s an issue with your braking system. This is a clear indication of an issue with your vehicle including a low brake fluid and worn-out brake pads. 

If the warning light comes on, don’t wait—schedule a visit to your mechanic to diagnose the issue before it becomes a safety hazard.

Vibrations When Braking

If you feel a vibration or pulsing sensation when you press the brake pedal, it could indicate that your brake rotors are warped. 

Warped rotors happen when they’ve been exposed to excessive heat or wear. This issue can affect braking performance and, if left unresolved, could result in uneven braking, making it harder to stop your vehicle safely. 

When this happens, reach out to an autorepair expert immediately as a mechanic can resurface or replace the rotors, restoring smooth and effective braking.

Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal

Have you ever stepped on the brake pedal and felt it sink lower than usual? A soft or spongy brake pedal is a serious red flag. It usually indicates air or moisture in the brake lines or a problem with the brake fluid. 

If your brake fluid is low or contaminated, it can compromise braking power and could eventually lead to brake failure. If you experience this, have your brakes inspected immediately to prevent further damage and ensure safe stopping power.

Car Pulling to One Side

If your car pulls to one side when you apply the brakes, it may be a sign that the brake components on one side of your vehicle are more worn than the other, or that there’s a problem with the brake calipers or pads. 

This issue can make your car harder to control, especially in emergency braking situations, so it’s essential to have it checked out as soon as possible. Reach out to a reliable auto repair expert for immediate car repairs. 

Burning Smell

A burning smell, especially after driving for a while or coming to a hard stop, could indicate that your brakes are overheating. This can happen if you’ve been riding the brakes too long or if there’s a more serious issue with the brake system.

If you notice this smell, pull over in a safe location, allow your brakes to cool down, and get your car checked by an auto repair professional as overheating can cause permanent damage to your brake pads, rotors, and other components.

Increased Stopping Distance

If you notice that your car takes longer to stop or the brakes don’t respond as quickly as they used to, it’s time to take action. 

Longer stopping distances can signal worn brake pads, low brake fluid, or other brake system issues. This can be especially dangerous in emergency situations, so don’t delay in getting your brakes inspected.

Fluid Leaks

Brake fluid leaks can be a serious concern. If you notice spots of fluid on the ground where you’ve parked, it’s important to investigate the source immediately. 

Leaking brake fluid can compromise your vehicle’s ability to stop, putting you and others at risk. A professional mechanic will be able to check your brake lines, master cylinder, and calipers for leaks and address the issue before it becomes a bigger problem.

Schedule Your Brake Repair Today! 

At German Automotive Performance, we go above and beyond to ensure a safe driving experience for you. 

With years of experience working with premium brands like Audi, Porsche, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen, Mike and our team are here to provide dealership-level expertise with a personal touch. 

If you’ve noticed any of the warning signs of brake issues, don’t wait—contact us today to schedule an inspection. Let us help keep you safe on the road with premium brake repair services at a fair price. Schedule your appointment now at German Automotive Performance in Arnold, MD