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.