Your Brakes: The Most Important Safety System
Your car's brakes are literally a matter of life and death. Yet many drivers ignore warning signs until it's an emergency. Here's how to recognise brake problems early—before they become dangerous and expensive.
Warning Sign #1: Squealing or Squeaking
What you hear: A high-pitched squeal when braking, especially at low speeds.
What it means: Most brake pads have a metal wear indicator. When the pad wears down to a certain point, this indicator contacts the rotor and makes noise. It's designed to warn you.
Action: Book a brake inspection soon. You likely have some life left, but don't delay.
Warning Sign #2: Grinding
What you hear: A harsh, metal-on-metal grinding sound.
What it means: This is serious. The brake pads are completely worn through, and the metal backing plate is grinding directly on the rotor. This damages the rotor (expensive) and compromises braking ability (dangerous).
Action: Stop driving and get it fixed immediately. Rotors may need replacement as well as pads.
Warning Sign #3: Soft or Spongy Pedal
What you feel: The brake pedal goes further to the floor than usual, or feels "mushy."
What it means: There's likely air in the brake lines, or the brake fluid is old and has absorbed moisture. In worst cases, it could indicate a leak in the hydraulic system.
Action: Check brake fluid level. If low, there may be a leak. Have the system inspected and bled.
Warning Sign #4: Pulling to One Side
What you feel: The car veers left or right when you brake.
What it means: Uneven braking. One side is gripping more than the other. Causes include a stuck caliper, uneven pad wear, or a collapsed brake hose.
Action: Needs inspection to identify the cause. Don't ignore it—uneven braking is unpredictable.
Warning Sign #5: Vibration or Pulsation
What you feel: The brake pedal or steering wheel vibrates when braking, especially at higher speeds.
What it means: Warped brake rotors. This happens when rotors overheat (e.g., heavy braking down hills) and cool unevenly.
Action: Rotors may need machining (resurfacing) or replacement.
Warning Sign #6: Brake Warning Light
What you see: The brake warning light on your dashboard stays on.
What it means: Could be as simple as the handbrake being slightly engaged, or as serious as low fluid/hydraulic failure.
Action: Check handbrake first. If light remains, check fluid level and have system inspected.
How Long Do Brakes Last?
- **Brake pads:** 30,000 - 70,000 km depending on driving style
- **Rotors:** Often last 2-3 sets of pads
- **Brake fluid:** Should be flushed every 2-3 years (it absorbs moisture)
Mobile Brake Service
At Mobile Autoworks NZ, we can inspect and replace your brakes at your home or workplace. We use quality pads and rotors, and we'll show you exactly what we're replacing and why.
Hearing strange noises? Don't wait until you can't stop. Book a brake inspection today.