Squealing brakes
A high-pitched squeal can occur when brake components are worn or when other conditions affect braking components. Persistent noise should be checked.
Brakes & safety
Car Brake Problems: 8 Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
Your braking system is essential for safe driving. If your brakes feel different, make unusual noises or trigger a warning light, here's what it could mean.
Your vehicle's braking system is essential for safe driving. If your brakes feel different, make unusual noises or produce warning lights, arrange a professional inspection. Here are eight common signs of brake problems — and what to do about them.
Quick answer
The most common signs of brake problems are squealing, grinding, the car pulling to one side, a soft or spongy pedal, vibration through the steering wheel when braking, longer stopping distances, a brake warning light and a burning smell after braking. If you notice any of these, arrange a professional brake inspection rather than waiting for it to get worse.
Warning signs
8 signs of brake problems
Grinding when braking
Grinding can indicate serious brake component wear. If you hear grinding, arrange an inspection promptly.
Vehicle pulls when braking
If the vehicle moves to one side when braking, the cause should be investigated.
Brake pedal feels soft
A brake pedal that feels unusually soft or spongy can indicate a braking-system issue requiring professional assessment.
Steering wheel vibrates during braking
Vibration while braking can have several causes, including brake components, wheels, tyres or suspension.
Longer stopping distance
If your vehicle seems to require more distance to stop, have the braking system checked.
Brake warning light
A brake warning light should not be ignored. The correct response depends on the warning and vehicle, so check your vehicle information and seek professional advice where appropriate.
Burning smell
A strong burning smell after braking can indicate excessive heat or another problem. Allow the vehicle to cool safely and seek professional assistance if the issue persists or is severe.
Maintenance
How often should brakes be checked?
Brake condition should be checked as part of regular vehicle maintenance and whenever you notice a change in braking performance. Pads and rotors wear gradually, which makes it easy to miss the point where they need attention. How quickly they wear varies according to:
- Driving style
- Traffic
- Vehicle weight
- Road conditions
- Brake component type
Brake fluid matters too — it absorbs moisture over time, and most manufacturers recommend changing it every 2 years regardless of mileage. Pad thickness and brake fluid condition are checked as part of every car service at our workshop.
Brake repair Auckland
Don't wait until it gets worse.
If you're experiencing brake problems, don't wait until the issue becomes worse. Our Wiri, Auckland workshop offers brake inspection, servicing and repairs — pads, rotors, callipers, lines and fluid — and brakes are one of the most common reasons a car fails its WOF, so we inspect to that same standard. Brake work is quoted after inspection, and in most cases can be done the same day if parts are in stock; call ahead with your make and model and we'll confirm.
See what's included on our Brakes & Safety page, or read our guide to the 10 warning signs your car needs a mechanic.
Common questions
Straight answers,
no fine print.
How do I know if my brake pads need replacing?
Noise, reduced braking performance, warning indicators or inspection findings can indicate worn brake pads.
Why do my brakes squeak?
Brake squeaking can have several causes, including brake component condition, contamination, moisture or wear.
How long do brake pads last?
Brake pad life varies depending on driving conditions, vehicle type, driving style and brake components.
Can I drive with grinding brakes?
Grinding can indicate significant brake wear or damage. Arrange professional assessment rather than continuing to drive unnecessarily.
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