4 Signs It May Be Time to Replace Your Brakes

Car trouble is never fun for anyone. One minute, everything's fine, the next you may be facing hefty repairs or replacements for one of your vehicle's most important parts: your brakes. Knowing when your brakes need to be replaced is key to effective and safe driving and may just save you both time and money down the road. Regular maintenance that includes a full point inspection can often let you know in advance if any of the key components of your car are wearing down or need replacement. Below are a few indicators it may be time to get your brakes checked.

1. Your safety light flashes on: A built-in safety feature in many newer model vehicles is the safety light that may indicate your brakes could use some attention.
2. Squealing Brakes: One of the first indications that your brakes may need to be checked or replaced is the sound they make. If you stop at a stoplight and notice a squealing noise coming from under your car, it's a good indicator that you may need to check your brake pads.
3. A vibrating sensation: If you step on the brake pedal and notice a vibrating sensation, it could be an indicator that your brake pads are getting worn down and you may be due for a replacement.
4. Grinding noise: If you hear a grinding, metal-on-metal sound when you stop your car, take the time to visit a trusted car repair company now rather than facing potentially costly repairs or replacements further down the road.

If you're worried about cost-effective repairs or regular replacements, take a deep breath. Unlike regular recommended maintenance and oil changes, the brake pads on most vehicles that are operating correctly last for around 50,000 miles. Some cars require changes as frequently as 25,000 miles. For car-specific information, car owners should always refer to their specific model's owner's manual for estimates on how long their brake pads are expected to last. Failure to properly maintain a car often means spending more money later. If the brakes on your vehicle are not properly maintained and regularly examined, costly repairs could be coming down the road. Save time and money by regularly scheduling maintenance services - including multi-point inspections - to get ahead of the curve now, and make sure your brakes have the stopping power that you depend on for your everyday commute. For complete car repair, inspection needs, and reliable service you can trust, contact us today.