5 Signs You Might Need Brake Repairs (Before It’s Too Late)

Monday 7 July 2025

Drivers often assume that if there is a problem with their vehicle on the road, the warning signs are going to be impossible to miss. They expect smoke to flood out of the engine, the power steering to stop working or the car not to start at all. While all these things can happen, it’s important to be aware that signs of an issue with your car can be far more subtle. However, even things which seem insignificant may point to a serious issue with your vehicle that needs to be rectified.

Brakes are easily the most important example of this. Most brake issues aren’t repaired because a driver has noticed a problem. Instead, they’ve been picked up during a regular inspection. However, there are signs that your brakes may not work as you need them to in an emergency situation.

Brake problems are silent at first, but they will get worse over time.

Squealing, Squeaking or Grinding

If your brakes are making odd noises such as squealing or squeaking, it’s important to be aware that this isn’t normal at all. Instead, it could point to a serious problem that you need to rectify. High pitched squeaking or grinding is a telltale sign that your brake pads have worn down. This could mean that the brakes are now grinding against the callipers. Once this happens, you’re looking at a far more expensive repair instead of a new set of brake pads.

This is why it’s important to notice this problem as soon as it becomes apparent. Remember, you may not always hear these noises unless you have your windows open. They can be quite subtle.

Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal

A brake pad that feels soft and spongy is never going to work as it should. Without the right repair, it could stop working completely. Brakes that sink the floor when pressed even lightly could be another sign of worn brake pads, brake fluid leaks or air somewhere in the brake lines. If you notice this, you need to start looking at brake repairs near me.

Vibrations When Braking

You may also notice vibrations when you press down on the brakes in your vehicle. If you notice vibrations when braking in the pedal or even in the steering wheel, then there are two common culprits. It could mean that you have warped brake rotors or uneven brake pads. Issues like this will always spell trouble for you and your car.

Longer Stopping Distances

Another sign to watch out for is longer stopping distances. This is always going to change as your brakes wear down over time. You need to make sure that your car is still stopping within a reasonable distance. You might even, on occasion in safe conditions, want to check your car’s ability to do a complete emergency stop. This is important as if this doesn’t work at the right moment it could put your life or a pedestrian’s life in danger. Remember brakes will have longer stopping distances in certain conditions. If your brakes are taking longer to work on a normal, clear day, it might be time to book your car in for a car brake service.

Brake Warning Light

Finally, the clearest sign to watch out for is the brake warning light. This is still easy to miss if you don’t pay much attention to the dash of your vehicle, but it’s something that you absolutely should be aware of if you want to avoid an issue here.

Why Ignoring These Signs Is Dangerous

Ultimately, if you ignore these signs then you are going to be driving a vehicle that is not reaching the right safety standards. Signs of brake problems should be dealt with immediately as they are one of the crucial elements of your vehicle for safety. If your brakes aren’t working you are more likely to experience a collision which could even be fatal. Particularly, if your brakes don’t work correctly during an emergency stop. An issue with your brakes will also never rectify itself. It’s only going to get worse the longer you leave it.

How All Coast Tyres Can Help With Brake Repairs

At All Coast Tyres, we provide brake repairs in Maroochydore and break inspections for our clients. We will make sure that your brakes are maintained to an expert standard so you never need to worry about them failing at the most inopportune of moments. Whether you notice one of the common signs of brake problems or even just a weird brake noise when driving we will be happy to assist you.

Book a free brake check today and gain peace of mind that your car is safe for you and your family out on the road.