It goes without saying that the brakes are one of the most important components of any vehicle. When you are on the road, you need brakes that are reliable and responsive so that you can stop in time to avoid collisions. However, just like any other mechanical component, your brakes may need repairs from time to time. If you do not know how to tell when you need brake repair, review the signs listed below.

• Grinding or Squealing Noises – Hearing noises you don’t normally hear when you’re driving your car is always a telltale sign that something needs servicing. If you hear grinding noises, this may be a sign that the brake pad is scraping against metal. If you hear squeaking or squealing, it could be your brake pad wear indicators alerting you.
• Vibrating While Braking – If the steering wheel or vehicle vibrates while you are braking, you may have an uneven rotor that requires attention. Brake rotors are what the brake pads push against to stop the vehicle’s wheels from spinning, so you’ll need prompt brake repair if you have a rotor problem.
• Spongy or Soft Brakes – If your brakes feel spongy or soft when you apply them, there could be air or moisture in the braking system. In more serious cases, there could be an issue with the master cylinder. You’ll need to get brake repairs right away if the master cylinder is malfunctioning since your vehicle may not stop in time.
• Burning Smell – If you smell something burning when you are driving your vehicle, your brakes may be overheated. It will be a chemical odor, and you should also visually inspect your wheels for smoke.