1Squealing or Squeaking
High-pitched sounds when braking usually indicate worn brake pads. Many pads have built-in wear indicators that make noise when it's time to replace them.
2Grinding
Metal-on-metal grinding means brake pads are completely worn and rotors are being damaged. Stop driving and get immediate service—this is dangerous and repairs get more expensive every mile.
3Vibration or Pulsing
Vibration through the brake pedal or steering wheel usually indicates warped rotors. This happens from overheating or uneven pad wear.
4Soft or Spongy Pedal
If the pedal feels soft or sinks to the floor, there may be air in the brake lines, a fluid leak, or master cylinder failure. Get this checked immediately.
5Pulling to One Side
If the car pulls left or right when braking, you may have uneven pad wear, a stuck caliper, or contaminated brake fluid on one side.
Key Takeaways
- 1Squealing = pads wearing thin
- 2Grinding = stop driving immediately
- 3Vibration = warped rotors
- 4Soft pedal = brake system failure—get help now
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