How to Know If Your Brakes Need Replacing: 8 Warning Signs

8 Warning Signs Your Brakes Need Attention

High-Pitched Squealing

A high-pitched squeal when braking is usually the wear indicator - a small metal tab that contacts the rotor when pads are worn. This is your first warning.

Urgency: Moderate - get checked within 1-2 weeks

Grinding or Growling Sound

A grinding noise means your pads are completely worn and metal is grinding against metal. This damages your rotors and significantly increases repair costs.

Urgency: HIGH - stop driving, get checked immediately

Vibration or Pulsing Brake Pedal

A vibrating or pulsing pedal when braking indicates warped rotors. This often happens after heavy braking or driving through water while brakes are hot.

Urgency: Moderate - get checked within 2 weeks

Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal

If the pedal feels soft or goes nearly to the floor, there may be air in the brake lines or a leak in the hydraulic system. This is a serious safety issue.

Urgency: HIGH - get checked immediately

Car Pulls to One Side

If your car pulls left or right when braking, one brake may be worn more than the other, or there could be a stuck caliper. Can also indicate uneven tyre wear.

Urgency: Moderate - get checked within 1-2 weeks

Brake Warning Light On

If your brake warning light is illuminated, don't ignore it. It could indicate low brake fluid (often due to worn pads), a system fault, or the handbrake being slightly on.

Urgency: HIGH - get diagnosed immediately

Longer Stopping Distances

If you notice it takes longer to stop, or you need to press the pedal harder, your brake pads may be worn or your brake fluid may need replacing.

Urgency: Moderate to High - get checked within a week

Burning Smell

A burning smell after hard braking could indicate overheated brakes. If it happens during normal driving, you may have a stuck caliper causing constant friction.

Urgency: HIGH - let brakes cool, then get checked

How to Check Your Brake Pads

You can often see your brake pads through the wheel spokes:

• Look through the wheel at the brake disc
• You should see the outer pad pressed against the rotor
• Good: 6-10mm of pad material visible
• Replace soon: 3-5mm remaining
• Replace immediately: Less than 3mm

💡 Pro Tip

Front brakes typically wear 2-3 times faster than rears because they do most of the stopping work. If your fronts need replacing, ask about the rears too - you might save on labour by doing both.