Last Day of the Brake Special: 2-Minute Checklist

Do you hear, feel or smell any of these?

Read each question and note every one you answer yes to. Each topic has its own article in the list at the end of this page.

• Squealing: do your brakes make a high-pitched squeal when you slow down?
• Grinding: do you hear a deep grinding or growling sound when you brake?
• Soft pedal: does the pedal feel spongy, sink toward the floor or travel farther than it used to?
• Shaking: does the steering wheel or the pedal shake or pulse when you brake?
• Pulling: does the car drift to one side when you brake?
• Burning smell: do you smell something burning after you have been braking, especially near one wheel?

Any dashboard lights, red or amber?

A red BRAKE light and an amber light mean different things. Red generally calls for immediate attention: it can indicate a problem such as low fluid or the parking brake being engaged, and if the parking brake is off, treat it as a reason to stop driving and get the car looked at. An amber ABS light usually means the anti-lock system has a fault, while the regular brakes may still work. That still deserves a prompt inspection.

• Red BRAKE light on while driving: check the parking brake first. If it is off and the light stays on, stop safely and do not continue.
• Amber ABS light: the car may still stop normally, but the anti-lock function may not be available. Schedule an inspection soon.

Has it been longer than your manual's fluid interval?

Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, even when the car is parked. Your owner's manual lists how often the manufacturer recommends replacing it. If you cannot remember the last time it was done, or the fluid in the reservoir looks dark, that is a good reason to ask for a check.

A fluid service is not a fix for worn pads or rotors. It is a separate item, and a technician can tell you which of them your car needs.

Do you know your pad condition right now?

If you answered no to everything above but cannot say when your pads were last measured, you are guessing. Pads can wear quietly, and driving that involves a lot of stopping uses them up faster.

A brake inspection replaces the guessing with a measurement. A technician checks pad thickness, rotors, fluid and calipers, then tells you what is fine, what is wearing and what needs work. Use the list below to read more about whatever you noticed, and book through the website when you are ready.