Your brakes are an important mechanical system that enables you to maintain a safe speed and stop when needed. If your brakes are in bad shape, so is your car, and it's not safe to drive. Depending on your car's age and several other factors, your brakes could need service. According to CNET, the typical car on the road is around 12 years old, as of 2024. Instead of taking chances on causing a potentially deadly accident, it always pays to maintain and repair your brakes as needed. Here are three signs your vehicle needs brake repair work done as soon as possible.

1. Your Brakes Make Loud Metallic Sounds

The most common brake repair service is replacing the brake pads and bleeding the brake lines. The brake pads have friction material that slowly wears away every time you use your brakes. When the friction material is worn away, you have metal rivets and a backing place that scrape, scratch, and gouge the rotors when you use the brakes. When you hear metallic sounds while braking, repairs need to be made.

2. Your Brake Pedal Feels Soft When Braking

The brake pedal should travel a very short distance and stop firmly every time you use it. If your brakes need repair, you might notice the brake pedal feels spongy and travels more than usual. You also might pump the brake pedal to get full stopping power. A soft brake pedal that travels more than normal might have water or air in one or more brake lines. The master cylinder also might be defective and need to be replaced before you lose all braking power.

3. Your Brakes Pulsate While Stopping

Brake rotors endure a lot of heat and sometimes warp enough to affect the brakes. Warped rotors can cause the brake pedal to pulsate when you step on the brakes. A technician can inspect your rotors to see if they need to be turned to restore a flat surface and restore smooth braking power. You also might need to replace one or more brake rotors.

It's important to keep a close watch over your brakes and maintain them when they need service. When you need a brake repair service on your car, truck, or van, you can call or visit Skagit Transmission to have them inspected and repaired. We look forward to helping your car get back on the road in top condition.