There a number of warning signs to look out for whilst using your car’s brakes….

Grinding – When the friction material on brake pads is heavily worn, it can result in a grinding noise as the brake pad has worn down to the metal caliper. This will likely damage the brake disc also.

Squeaking – There are many reasons why car brakes squeal. Squeaking could suggest that the brake caliper has stuck and the brake pad remains partially applied to the disc. However, some brake pads have wear indicators that squeal when worn to let the driver know the brakes need changing. Either way, you should get any squeaking checked out.

Pulsating – If you feel a continuous pulsating from your car’s brake pedal whenever you apply the brakes, the brake disc may have become warped due to excessive heat. Pulsation occurs because the brake disc is distorted and no longer provides a perfectly flat surface when the brake pad makes contact. If this only occurs when you apply the brakes firmly, it could just be the ABS kicking in. However, you should have pulsating brakes checked out if you are concerned or it happens regularly.

Pulling – If your car pulls to the left or right when you apply the brakes, you may have a sticking hydraulic or mechanical component such as a seized caliper. An inspection can identify the precise reason for the vehicle pulling to one side.

Sponginess – Does the car brake pedal feel spongy and unresponsive? This is a sign that air has entered the brake’s lines and is preventing the brake fluid from flowing through this system effectively.

Soft Brake Pedal – If the car brake pedal is limp and goes all the way to the floor, this indicates a serious braking system fault which you should have inspected immediately. A brake pedal that is soft and can be applied all the way to the floor usually means the brake fluid is ineffective and needs replacing. However, there can be several other potential reasons such as a master cylinder fault.

Dashboard Light – If a brake warning light appears on your instrument panel either continuously or when you apply the brakes, it usually means the car brake fluid level is critically low. This could also indicate a leak in the brake hoses.

High Handbrake – If the handbrake is pulling up higher than it normally does, it may need adjusting. In modern cars, this is usually anything more than 6 to 8 clicks. If the handbrake lever reaches the end of its travel, it will fail the MOT, so it is worth getting it checked.

Old Brake Fluid – If your brake fluid is over 2 years old, it may be losing its effectiveness. This is down to its hygroscopic properties that allow it to absorb moisture over time, affecting the properties of the fluid which negatively impacts braking ability. Brake fluid should be changed approximately every two years but check your manufacturer’s handbook just to be sure.

For safety’s sake, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected as quickly as possible when you notice any of the above symptoms.