Brake Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
Brakes rarely fail without warning — they usually tell you something's wrong first, through a sound, a feeling through the pedal, or a light on the dash. Here's what to listen and look for.
Not sure if it's urgent?
Send us a voice note describing the noise, or just bring it in — we'll check your pads and discs and show you exactly what we find before doing anything.
Ask on WhatsAppWhat your brakes are telling you
Sounds
- High-pitched squeal when braking — usually the wear indicator on the pad
- Grinding or metal-on-metal noise — pads are likely worn through
- Clicking when you brake or let off the pedal — a loose caliper or pad
How it feels
- Soft or spongy pedal — air or moisture in the brake fluid
- Car pulls to one side under braking — uneven wear or a sticking caliper
- Vibration or pulsing through the pedal — a warped brake disc
- Pedal sinks slowly to the floor when held — a fluid leak
Dashboard
- Brake warning light — check fluid level first, then get it looked at
- ABS warning light — get it scanned, don't ignore it
- Handbrake warning light staying on when released — handbrake mechanism issue
How urgent is it?
Keep an eye on it
Light squeal that comes and goes — book a check on your next visit.
Get it checked soon
Persistent squealing, a soft pedal, or a warning light — book within the week.
Stop and get it checked
Grinding, a pedal that sinks to the floor, or pulling hard to one side.
Get your brakes checked properly
Walk-ins welcome at 430 Burdett Road, Bow, London E3 4JS.