How do you know if your brakes are going out?

If you’re wondering how do you know if your brakes are going out, more than likely you are starting to notice braking issues.  Because there is not a set schedule as to when to replace brakes, frequent inspections are a necessity.  As a conscientious vehicle owner, have your brakes checked at every tire rotation service, which is usually about every 6 months (or every other oil change service).  

How long your brakes last actually depends upon several factors, including:

• Driving conditions – Do you drive a lot of stop-and-go miles (such as in the city), or mountainous terrain with steep declines, or a straight and level highway?
• Vehicle weight – How many passengers do you usually carry in your car as well as how much extra cargo is loaded into the trunk?
• Brake materials – Do you use higher quality brake pads and rotors, or do you go with the cheapest you can find?
• Purpose of vehicle – Do you tow a trailer, boat or other recreational vehicle, or do you just drive to work and shopping?

So how do you know if brake repair is needed?  What you hear from your brakes will usually let you know if your brakes are going bad.  Listen for squeaking, squealing, or metal-on-metal grinding when you step on the brake pedal.  Some cars have built-in wear sensors that scrape against a brake disc when the pads needed replacing, or a dash warning light that illuminates when the brake pads reach the minimum thickness or the brake fluid is too low.  An easy brake repair to clean the brakes can eliminate some minor noises, but persistent, prominent noises typically mean parts are worn out.

Tip to Remember: A visual inspection by your auto mechanic is the best way to determine the amount of life left in your brakes, such as the thickness of the pads, and the condition of the rotors and calipers!.

Do you want to know how do you know if your brakes are going out? Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive to make an appointment and to find out more about brake repair.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.