When should I get a brake inspection?

Brakes stop the vehicle and are crucial to safe driving. Here are the signs your vehicle needs a brake inspection:

Grinding or squeaking noise when you apply the brakes. A noise when braking may be due to a problem with the brake pads. Pads are the surface of the brake, and they wear down over time. Some brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn, and new pads are needed. Continuing to drive with worn-out brake pads could result in a costly brake repair.

Brake pedal feels “spongy,” and your vehicle requires longer distances to stop. If you have to press the brake pedal further or harder than usual to stop, this could be a sign that brake service may be required.

Brake warning light comes on and stays on. If the brake hydraulic system red warning light comes on and stays on, this indicates that there is a problem in the brake hydraulic system. If the light is intermittent and seems to come on and off depending on whether the vehicle is turning, it may mean that the brake fluid level is getting low. Ignoring this dashboard light could be dangerous. Have the brake system inspected right away.

One of our ASE trained technicians will inspect all major brake components: discs, brake pads, brake lines and shoes. After a thorough inspection, they will tell you what the issue is and make suggestions based on wear and your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.