Your vehicle’s braking system is one of its most critical safety components. When your brakes start to fail, it puts you, your passengers, and others on the road at risk. Recognizing early warning signs of brake trouble can help prevent dangerous situations and costly repairs. At Yanis Foreign Auto Repair, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Hyannis area. Here’s a look at five common signs of brake trouble.

Squeaking or Grinding Sounds

Unusual noises when braking are often one of the first signs of a problem. If you hear a high-pitched squeaking or squealing sound, it could mean your brake pads are wearing thin. Brake pads commonly have built-in wear indicators that make noise to alert you when it’s time for a replacement. A grinding noise, on the other hand, is a more serious issue, indicating that the brake pads have worn down completely and metal is rubbing against metal. This can lead to damage to your rotors and a much more expensive repair.

Vibrations When Braking

If your vehicle vibrates or pulses when you apply the brakes, it may indicate warped brake rotors. The rotors should be smooth and even to provide consistent braking performance, but over time, they can wear down unevenly due to heat buildup. Warped rotors can cause the brake pedal to feel shaky and make it harder to stop the vehicle smoothly. 

Soft Brake Pedal

A healthy brake pedal should feel firm and responsive when you press it. If you notice that your brake pedal feels soft or requires more pressure to stop the car, there could be an issue with air in the brake lines. This symptom could also indicate a brake fluid leak, which is a major safety hazard and means you should get towed to the shop.

Car Pulling to One Side

When you apply the brakes, your car should stop in a straight line. If you notice your vehicle pulling to one side when braking, it could be a sign of a stuck caliper. This puts you at greater risk on the road and should be addressed ASAP. 

Warning Light on the Dashboard

Modern vehicles are equipped with brake warning lights that illuminate when the system detects a problem. If your brake warning light turns on, it could indicate problems such as faulty wheel speed sensors or low brake fluid. When this light comes on, it’s always best to have your brakes inspected to ensure your safety.

Brake Repair in Hyannis, MA

When you need auto repair in Hyannis MA and the surrounding area, contact Yanis Foreign Auto Repair at  508-266-5842. At our local auto shop, we provide expert auto repair for European, Asian, and domestic vehicles. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!