Five Early Warning Signs You Need New Brakes

It’s the start of a new year, which incidentally means your car is officially one model year older – and needier. Still, by remaining vigilant for any potential warning signs, you can stay one step ahead of costly repairs this year. Plus, learning to spot these red flags early can significantly extend the lifespan of your vehicle.
 
One thing you’ll need to determine in 2024 is if you’ll need new brakes. Courtesy of Jennings Chambersburg, here are five early signals that your brakes might be calling for your help. (Hint: it sounds a lot like screeching.) 
 
High-Pitched Screeching  
 
Often, you’ll hear brake problems before you see or feel them. This is usually due to a high-pitched screeching sound that emits from your brake pads when they start to wear thin. However, it’s important to note that the screeching isn’t directly caused by worn-out brakes. Car manufacturers deliberately include a small metal piece in the brake pads to serve as an indicator, signaling the need for replacement. 
 
If the squealing noises persist even after installing new brake pads, the next step is to inspect your rotors. It’s possible that they may have become glazed, which happens when the metal heats up and burns as a result of excessive braking. Take a look at your rotors for any blue marks or a dark ring, as either of these signs could indicate that it’s time to replace them.
 
If you start hearing a loud, metallic grinding sound instead of the screeching noise, it’s a sign that your brake pads are completely worn out and need to be replaced as soon as possible. Immediately take your car in for service, as leaving your car in this position could potentially pose safety risks. 
 
The Eye Test  
 
Sometimes it’s best not to overanalyze things. If you notice any visible issues with your brake pads, chances are there’s an actual issue with your brake pads. The brake pads can be found between the wheel spokes, pressed against the rotors. Take their measurements, and if they’re thinner than a quarter of an inch, it might be a good idea to schedule your service appointment with us at Community Chevy. 
 
Performance Anomalies  
 
When your brakes stop responding as quickly as they should, it may be a sign of a leak in your braking system. If your brakes are sending out vibrations (the kind that causes your steering wheel to shake, not the Beach Boys kind), either the brake pads or rotors need replacing.  
 
Your brakes regularly send signals like these to alert you about their condition. The better you become at understanding your vehicle, the easier it becomes to evaluate abnormal performance, determine the reasons behind it, and address it swiftly.
 
Extreme Sensitivity  
 
You might start your Buick Enclave today only to find your brakes unusually sensitive, jerking you to a halt at the slightest tap of the brake pad. This could be the result of the rotors wearing down unevenly or the brake fluid needing a replacement.
 
On the other hand, it becomes problematic when your brakes lack sensitivity and require excessive pressure to engage. This might indicate low brake fluid, worn-out brake pads, or even suggest an issue with your car’s hydraulic system. 
 
Puddle of Doom  
 
The worst sight on a beautiful, sunny day is a pool forming beneath your parked vehicle. Unless it’s leftover water from an unexpected overnight shower, chances are it’s your car’s brake fluid leaking out. You should be able to distinguish between regular motor oil and brake fluid, as the latter is visibly thinner.
 
Give Me a Brake
 
Life is full of starts and stops… but you should still have some autonomy over when they occur. Don’t compromise your safety or the health of your vehicle with faulty brake pads or rotors. Visit us at Jennings Chevrolet Buick GMC today, where we never put the brakes on a good deal. With our robust inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles, you’re sure to find the car, truck, or SUV that pulls out all the stops. 

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