Chances are we know we need new brakes when a warning light comes on inside the cabin, signaling brakes are due to be changed or that there’s some sort of brake problem which needs our attention. Generally however, there are other ways you can tell if the brakes are in need of some sort of repair or replacement, such as grabbing, pulling, shuddering or shaking  when we attempt to stop or slow down, pulling to one side, a grinding noise, pedal vibration, a soft or spongy pedal, or a noise when we put the brakes on.

Remember This: If your brakes fail, you will have an accident, which could severely injure or cause death to you, your passengers, pedestrians and/or other drivers.  This is why I never do any brake work on any of my cars, other than to check the brake fluid and replace the brake pads.  I leave the real brake work to the professionals, which reassures me that any brake work I need to have done is done correctly. 

While there’s no specific time frame or guideline to tell us when brakes need to be replaced because the wear is determined by a variety of factors, such as the weight of the vehicle, the age of the vehicle, driving habits, etc., as a rule, the front brakes will usually need to be replaced before the rear brakes, simply due to front brakes taking on more of the breaking load, especially in front-wheel drive cars and minivans.

Sometimes, all that needs to be done is the replacement of brake pads, which should be replaced regularly.  Usually, if you hear a high squeal when using your brakes, this can mean the soft metal on the pads has worn thin, while other brake pads have a soft metal tab embedded in the material which closes an electric circuit and signals a warning light when the brake pads needs to be replaced. 

Brake rotors, calipers and brake lines should also be checked.  If your vehicle is leaking brake fluid, this is something that will need to be repaired as soon as possible.  You should also check brake fluid regularly and add fluid as needed.

If you’re ever in doubt or think your brakes should be looked at, don’t put it off – instead, take your car in to a service technician or certified mechanic right away.  It could save your life.

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