The brakes on your vehicle are essential although often forgotten about. You push the pedal and the car slows to a stop. For many people, the only time they think about the brakes is when they face a roadworthy test or when they’re trying to stop to avoid an accident.

However, brake failure is not something that anyone wants to experience, that’s why you need to be aware of the following 5 signs of brake problems.

Don’t forget, you can click here to book a brake service, this is something you should be doing every year.

1. Brake Warning Light

Every vehicle is fitted with a brake warning light, it is usually on when the handbrake is on, and when it’s off. However, the light can also come on when you have an issue with your braking system.

There are many different causes, from a partially engaged parking brake to the failure of an electronic part. The braking system is monitored with electronic sensors. If one of these detects an issue the light comes on. You need to get it checked out.

2. Grinding Noise

Grinding noises coming from your brakes, especially when you press the brake pedal, are usually a sign of worn brake pads.

The more worn the pads become the less capable they will be at stopping the car. If your pads are worn you need to replace them as soon as possible. This protects your discs and helps to ensure you can stop when you need to.

Replacing the pads is a simple operation, your mechanic will probably do it in less than an hour, allowing you to safely carry on your journey.

Of course, a grinding noise can just be something caught in the caliper, such as a stone flicking up from the road. But, you need to verify it for your own safety.

3. Vibrations in Steering Wheel

Vibrations tend to be felt when you drive at a certain speed, when you rake, and perhaps when you’re cornering. All of these indicate there is an issue with your vehicle that needs to be resolved.

In the case of the brakes, vibration can mean the discs are warped. If they are not running true your pads won’t connect to them properly. This reduces your braking effectiveness and increasing the likelihood of you rear-ending another vehicle.

4. Fluid Loss

You should check your brake fluid container regularly. The system is sealed, allowing hydraulic pressure to move the pistons and work the brakes.  If the fluid level drops below the minimum your brakes will feel spongier and be less effective. This is partly the loss in pressure and partly the increase in the air in your braking system.

Both scenarios mean a reduction in braking efficiency and an increased likelihood of an accident.

5. Burning Smell

A burning smell when driving is never a good thing. If it smells like chemical burning then you have a clutch or brake issue. If the smell appears after hard braking it’s definitely brake-related.

The smell can happen when bedding-in new pads. It can also be a result of leaving your parking brake on or an issue causing the brakes to bind. The problem is sticking brakes causes the brake fluid to heat up. If it reaches boiling it will evaporate, potentially causing complete braking failure.