How to Tell If Your Car Needs Brakes

If you hear squealing or grinding when braking, feel vibrations or a soft pedal, notice longer stopping distances, see a brake warning light, or find pads thinner than about 3 mm, your car likely needs brake service. These signs point to worn pads, warped rotors, low fluid, or other issues that reduce stopping power and should be addressed promptly to stay safe and prevent costlier repairs.

The Telltale Warning Signs on the Road

Most brake problems announce themselves while you’re driving. Paying attention to sound, feel, and dashboard alerts can help you catch issues early before they become dangerous or expensive.

• Squealing or chirping that rises with wheel speed, often from a built-in wear indicator contacting the rotor.
• Grinding or scraping, a metal-on-metal sound that suggests pads are worn through and damaging rotors.
• Pulsation in the brake pedal or vibration in the steering wheel under braking, commonly due to rotor thickness variation (warping) or uneven pad deposits.
• A soft, spongy, or low brake pedal, which can indicate air in the lines, moisture-contaminated fluid, or a failing master cylinder.
• Longer stopping distances or needing more pedal pressure to slow down, a sign of pad wear, glazed pads, or hydraulic problems.
• Pulling to one side when braking, which can stem from a sticking caliper, uneven pad wear, or a hydraulic imbalance.
• Burning smell or smoke after braking, often from overheated pads or dragging brakes that aren’t releasing fully.
• Brake warning light or “Brake pads worn” message; red typically signals a hydraulic or parking brake issue, while amber ABS indicates anti-lock features are disabled.
• Parking brake lever or pedal travel increased, suggesting adjustment or rear brake service is needed.

Any one of these symptoms merits an inspection; multiple symptoms together usually mean it’s time for pads and possibly rotors, plus a check of the hydraulic system.

Simple Checks You Can Do at Home

You can confirm many brake concerns without special tools. Park on level ground, secure the vehicle, and allow brakes to cool before inspecting.

• Pad thickness: Look through the wheel spokes (or remove the wheel) and check the remaining friction material; less than roughly 3–4 mm means replacement is due.
• Rotor condition: Deep grooves, blue spots, cracks, or a heavy lip at the edge indicate heat damage or wear requiring machining or replacement.
• Brake fluid: Level below “MIN” can signal worn pads or a leak; fluid that’s dark/brown may be moisture-laden and due for replacement.
• Road test: In a safe area, do a firm stop from about 30 mph (50 km/h) and note any pull, pulsation, or delayed response.
• Leaks: Look for wetness inside wheels, on calipers, hoses, or under the car near the master cylinder—any fluid leak is unsafe.
• Noises after rain: Light surface rust can cause temporary scraping on first stops; persistent noise points to a real issue.
• Mileage and use: Heavy city driving, towing, hills, or track use wear brakes faster than highway cruising.

If you’re unsure what you’re seeing, or if the car exhibits unsafe behavior, book a professional inspection rather than delaying repairs.

Red Flags—Don’t Drive, Get Service Now

Certain brake symptoms indicate an immediate safety risk. If you encounter any of the following, pull over safely and arrange a tow.

• Brake pedal sinks to the floor or requires pumping to stop.
• Red brake warning light stays on while driving (not just for the parking brake).
• Loud metal-on-metal grinding with severely reduced braking.
• Visible brake fluid leak or a sudden drop in reservoir level.
• Smoke from a wheel or a strong burning smell after light use.
• Car veers sharply when braking, suggesting a stuck caliper or hydraulic failure.

Driving with these conditions risks complete brake failure or fire; a tow is far safer—and usually cheaper—than compounding damage.

Typical Service Intervals and Costs

Brake life varies widely with driving style, terrain, vehicle weight, and parts quality. Hybrids and EVs often rely on regenerative braking, extending pad life but introducing corrosion risks from infrequent friction brake use.

• Pad lifespan: About 25,000–70,000 miles (40,000–110,000 km), longer on gentle highway routes; EVs/hybrids can exceed 80,000 miles but may need periodic cleaning.
• Rotor lifespan: Commonly 50,000–70,000 miles, but rotors can require replacement sooner if thin, warped, or damaged.
• Brake fluid: Replace every 2–3 years regardless of mileage to control moisture and maintain pedal feel.
• Typical U.S. costs (per axle, parts and labor vary by vehicle/region): pads only $150–$350; pads + rotors $300–$800; single caliper $200–$500; brake fluid service $80–$150.

Using high-quality parts and servicing both sides of an axle together helps ensure balanced braking and fewer return trips.

Why Brakes Wear—and How to Make Them Last

Friction, heat, and contamination gradually wear pads and rotors. Driving habits and maintenance practices can significantly extend brake life.

• Look ahead and slow progressively instead of last-second hard stops.
• Avoid riding the brakes on long descents; downshift where appropriate.
• Maintain proper tire pressure and alignment to prevent uneven braking loads.
• Remove unnecessary weight and roof racks to reduce stopping effort.
• Rinse wheels and brakes in winter to limit salt corrosion; occasional gentle stops keep friction surfaces clean on EVs.
• Ask for caliper slide cleaning/lubrication during service to prevent sticking.
• Use the correct brake parts for your vehicle and driving style (OEM or reputable aftermarket).

These habits reduce heat and wear, keeping stopping distances short and repair intervals longer.

When to See a Professional—and What They’ll Check

If symptoms persist or you’re approaching service intervals, a technician can diagnose precisely and recommend the right repair.

• Measure pad and rotor thickness against specifications; inspect for taper or glazing.
• Check rotor run-out and thickness variation that cause pedal pulsation.
• Test caliper operation, slides, and parking brake mechanisms for sticking.
• Inspect hoses, lines, and master cylinder for leaks, cracks, or swelling.
• Analyze brake fluid condition (moisture content, contamination) and bleed as needed.
• Road-test and scan ABS/ESC systems for fault codes or sensor issues.

A documented inspection provides clarity on urgency, parts needed, and whether front, rear, or all four corners require attention.

Summary

You’ll know your car likely needs brakes if you notice squealing or grinding, pedal pulsation, a soft pedal, longer stops, pulling, warning lights, or pads under about 3 mm. A quick visual check and fluid inspection can confirm concerns, but any severe symptom—especially grinding, a red brake light, or a sinking pedal—warrants immediate professional service. Timely maintenance, fluid changes every 2–3 years, and smooth driving habits will keep your braking strong and your repair bills lower.

How long do brake pads last?

Brake pads typically last between 30,000 to 70,000 miles, though this can vary significantly based on driving style, driving environment, and the type of brake pads used. Aggressive driving, frequent stops, and heavy traffic can shorten their lifespan, while smooth driving in varied conditions can extend it. You should also look for signs like squealing noises, increased stopping distance, or vibrating when braking, which signal it’s time for a replacement. 
Factors Influencing Brake Pad Lifespan

• Driving Style: Opens in new tabAggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, leads to faster wear. 
• Driving Environment: Opens in new tabDriving in heavy traffic or on hilly terrain requires more frequent brake use, accelerating wear. 
• Brake Pad Material: Opens in new tabDifferent types of brake pads, such as ceramic or performance pads, have varying lifespans. 
• Vehicle Type: Opens in new tabThe make and model of the vehicle, as well as the specific brake system, can affect how long the pads last. 

Signs Your Brake Pads Need Replacing

• Squealing or Screeching Noises: A high-pitched squeal when you press the brake pedal often indicates the wear indicator is making contact with the rotor. 
• Vibration or Pulsation: A shaky or vibrating sensation in the pedal or steering wheel while braking can signal worn pads or rotors. 
• Increased Stopping Distance: If your vehicle takes longer to stop, your brake pads may be worn. 
• Brake Warning Light: A dedicated brake pad warning light on your dashboard is a clear sign to check your brakes. 
• Grinding or Scraping Sounds: A metal-on-metal sound is a serious indicator that your brake pads are completely worn and need immediate replacement to prevent further damage to the rotors. 

When to Get Your Brakes Checked

• At around 30,000 miles, it’s a good idea to have your brake pads inspected. 
• If you notice any of the warning signs mentioned above, have a mechanic check them as soon as possible. 

How can you tell when your car needs brakes?

You may need new brakes if you hear grinding or squealing noises, feel vibrations in the pedal or steering wheel, notice the car pulls to one side when braking, experience a soft or spongy brake pedal, see the brake warning light, or have increased stopping distances. Visual inspection can also reveal worn-out pads that are less than 1/4 inch thick.
 
Listen for Noises

• Squealing or Screeching: A high-pitched noise often means the wear indicator is rubbing against the rotor, signaling it’s time for new pads. 
• Grinding: This is a metal-on-metal sound that indicates severe pad wear and potential damage to other components, requiring immediate attention. 

Feel for Changes in Your Pedal 

• Soft or Spongy Pedal: Opens in new tabIf you have to press the pedal further down than normal to slow or stop, it may be due to worn brake pads or a problem with the hydraulic system. 
• Vibrations or Pulsations: Opens in new tabPulsation in the pedal or steering wheel when you brake can indicate worn pads or warped rotors. 

Watch for Performance Changes 

• Increased Stopping Distance: If your car takes longer to stop than it used to, your brake pads may be worn down. 
• Pulling to One Side: If the vehicle pulls left or right when you brake, it could mean uneven pad wear or a problem with a brake caliper. 
• Brake Warning Light: A glowing brake light on your dashboard signals a potential problem with the braking system. 

Visually Inspect Your Brakes 

• Thin Brake Pads: Opens in new tabUse a flashlight to look at your brake pads through the wheel. If the friction material is less than 1/4 inch thick, or if the wear indicator slot in the center of the pad is gone, they need to be replaced. 
• Leaking Fluid: Opens in new tabAny signs of brake fluid on the ground under your car can indicate a leak and should be addressed by a professional. 

When to Seek Professional Help 

• If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to have your brakes inspected by a qualified mechanic to ensure your safety.

How do I tell if it’s my brakes or rotors?

You likely need new brakes and rotors if you hear a squealing or grinding noise, feel a vibration or pulsation in the brake pedal or steering wheel when you brake, notice the car pulling to one side, experience longer stopping distances, see visible grooves, deep lips, or cracks on the rotors, or if a brake warning light is on. You should also check the brake pad thickness and the rotor surface for uneven wear or thinness to determine if replacement is needed, as rotors often require replacement when pads are replaced.
 
This video shows how to check for worn brake rotors by looking for a significant lip on the edge: 58sHelpful DIYYouTube · Sep 13, 2016
Auditory Signs

• Squealing: A high-pitched squealing sound when you press the brake pedal often indicates a worn brake pad’s built-in wear indicator is touching the rotor, according to AutoZone. 
• Grinding: A harsh grinding noise can mean the brake pads have worn down completely, allowing metal-on-metal contact between the pad’s backing plate and the rotor, which requires immediate replacement to prevent rotor damage. 

Tactile Signs

• Vibration or Pulsation: Opens in new tabA pulsating sensation in the brake pedal or a shaking in the steering wheel when you brake is a classic sign of warped brake rotors. 
• Pedal feels soft: Opens in new tabIf the brake pedal goes too far down or isn’t as responsive as it should be, it can indicate a problem with the brake pads, rotors, or other hydraulic system components, says Dutch Valley Auto Works. 

Visual & Performance Signs

• Car pulling to one side: Opens in new tabIf the car pulls to the left or right when you brake, it may mean the brakes on the opposite side are worn out, notes Frost Ins.. 
• Extended stopping distance: Opens in new tabYou may notice your vehicle takes longer to come to a full stop, indicating reduced braking effectiveness, according to AutoZone. 
• Visible Rotor Damage: Opens in new tabCheck the rotors for deep grooves, scoring, rust spots, or a noticeable lip on the outer edge, which indicates significant wear, says Brake Performance. 
• Brake Warning Light: Opens in new tabYour dashboard brake light may illuminate to signal low brake fluid, worn pads, or other brake issues. 

Inspection Tips

• Check Rotor Thickness and Smoothness: Look for deep grooves or a significant lip on the rotor’s edge. 
• Inspect Brake Pads: Check the remaining thickness of the brake pad material; they should be replaced when worn down to about 3-4 mm. 
• Consult a Professional: If you notice any of these signs, have your brakes and rotors inspected by a professional mechanic to ensure your safety. 

You can watch this video to see the difference between good and bad brake rotors: 59sMohawk ChevroletYouTube · Apr 7, 2023

What will bad brake pads feel like?

If the brake pads are worn out, the backing plate can contact the rotor and exhibit metal-on-metal grinding noises as well as a rough feeling in the brake pedal. Extended stopping distances. The friction material helps you slow down sooner, and worn-out brakes often aren’t as effective. Grooves in the rotor surface.