When to Get Your Brakes Checked: Common Signs You Need Brake Repairs
There’s no part of your car more important to your safety than your brakes. They’re your first line of defense in an emergency and your constant companion in daily driving. But like everything else in your vehicle, brakes wear out over time. Knowing when to get a brake check—and recognizing the common signs of brake issues—can prevent accidents, extend the life of your car, and save you money on major repairs.
At Moore’s Motor Service, we’ve been helping Coventry drivers stay safe on the road since 1927. And one thing we’ve learned in nearly a century of service is this: brake problems don’t fix themselves. The earlier you spot the warning signs, the better off you—and your vehicle—will be.
Let’s dive into the most common indicators that it’s time to get your brakes inspected and repaired.
1. Your Brake Warning Light Is On
This one’s easy to overlook, especially if your dashboard looks like a Christmas tree. But when your brake warning light comes on, it’s a clear signal from your vehicle’s onboard computer that something isn’t right.
Modern cars are equipped with sensors that monitor brake pad thickness, brake fluid levels, and the anti-lock braking system (ABS). A brake light doesn’t always mean a major issue—but it always means it’s time to bring your car in for a professional brake check. Ignoring it can lead to much bigger problems down the line.
2. You Hear Unusual Noises When Braking
One of the most common symptoms of brake issues is noise—and it’s also one of the most ignored.
- Squealing or screeching: This high-pitched sound usually means your brake pads are worn down and need replacing. Most pads are designed with a small metal wear indicator that creates this sound to alert you before damage occurs.
- Grinding: If you hear grinding when you press the brake pedal, your brake pads may be completely worn down. At this point, you’re likely damaging your rotors—turning a simple pad replacement into a much costlier brake repair.
- Clicking or rattling: This can indicate loose or worn hardware in your braking system, and it’s something that needs prompt attention.
Don’t turn up the radio to drown it out. Schedule a brake inspection instead.
3. Your Car Pulls to One Side
When you press the brakes and your car veers to the left or right, it could mean one of several things:
- Uneven brake pad wear
- A stuck caliper
- A collapsed brake hose
- Issues with the suspension or alignment (which can also affect braking performance)
Regardless of the cause, pulling during braking is a clear sign that your car brake maintenance is overdue. Braking should be smooth and centered—anything else is a safety concern.
4. You Feel Vibrations or Pulsations
Does your brake pedal or steering wheel shake when you slow down? This often points to warped rotors. Brake rotors are the metal discs your brake pads clamp down on to stop the car. Over time, especially if they get overheated, they can become uneven.
Not only does this reduce your stopping power, but it also leads to premature wear on other parts of your braking system. A quick brake check at a trusted shop like Moore’s Motor Service can determine if your rotors can be resurfaced or if they need to be replaced.
5. It Takes Longer to Stop
If your car feels like it’s taking longer to come to a complete stop, trust your instincts—something is off.
This kind of “brake fade” could be due to:
- Worn-out brake pads
- Low brake fluid
- Air in the brake lines
- A failing master cylinder
Stopping distances are crucial in emergencies. If you feel your car doesn’t stop as quickly as it used to, it’s time to schedule professional brake service.
6. Your Brake Pedal Feels Soft or Spongy
When your brake pedal sinks too far or feels squishy, it’s a red flag. It could be caused by:
- Air or moisture in the brake lines
- A brake fluid leak
- Worn master cylinder seals
This isn’t something to delay. A soft pedal means reduced braking power—and that’s a risk you don’t want to take.
7. You Smell Something Burning
A sharp, chemical-like burning smell after heavy braking—or during normal driving—could mean overheated brakes or even a stuck caliper. If this happens, safely pull over and allow your brakes to cool. If the smell persists, call for towing and avoid driving until the issue is diagnosed. Moore’s Motor Service offers fast and affordable towing right here in Coventry, and we’ll make sure your vehicle gets safely to our shop.
8. Brake Fluid Is Low or Leaking
Brake fluid is critical for hydraulic pressure in your braking system. If the level drops too low—or worse, if you notice a leak—it’s an emergency situation. You might see a puddle of light yellow or brown fluid near your wheels or under the brake pedal.
Unlike oil, brake fluid doesn’t get “used up,” so a low level usually points to a leak. Our expert technicians can quickly locate the source and perform the necessary brake repairs to restore your vehicle’s safety.
9. You’ve Hit the Mileage Milestone
Even if you haven’t noticed any symptoms, routine car brake maintenance is essential. Most brake pads need replacing every 25,000 to 65,000 miles, depending on your driving style, vehicle type, and pad material.
If you’re approaching one of these mileage markers—or it’s been a year or more since your last brake check—it’s time to get your brakes inspected. Preventative care now can save you from costly repairs later.
Why Timely Brake Repairs Matter
Putting off brake repairs can cause a domino effect. Worn pads damage rotors. Damaged rotors wear down calipers. Faulty brakes lead to accidents—and those can result in injuries, insurance hikes, and vehicle downtime.
At Moore’s Motor Service, we believe in taking care of small problems before they become big ones. That’s why we perform thorough brake inspections and only recommend the services you actually need. No upselling. No pressure. Just honest, affordable repairs from a family-owned shop that’s been serving the Coventry community for nearly a century.
We work on all makes and models—domestic, foreign, and European—and we back our work with decades of trusted experience. Whether you drive a commuter car, a performance vehicle, or manage a fleet, we’ve got the tools and know-how to keep your brakes in top shape.
Your safety is too important to ignore brake problems. If you’ve noticed any of the signs above—or if it’s just been a while since your last inspection—don’t wait until it’s too late. Moore’s Motor Service is here to help with expert brake checks, reliable repairs, and friendly service you can count on. Give us a call at 401-821-4050 or book your appointment online today. Let’s keep you safe, one stop at a time.