How do I know if my brakes need replacing?
Warning signs include squealing or grinding when braking, a vibrating or pulsing pedal, the car pulling to one side, a soft or low pedal, a longer stopping distance, and the brake warning light. Grinding often means the pads are worn to the backing plate and are damaging the discs, so have it checked straight away.
Signs your brakes need attention
- Squealing or squeaking when you brake
- Grinding or metal-on-metal noise
- Vibration through the pedal or steering wheel when braking
- The car pulls to one side under braking
- A soft, spongy or low brake pedal
- The brake warning light is on
How do car brakes work?
When you press the pedal, hydraulic pressure pushes the brake pads against a spinning disc (or shoes against a drum), and friction slows the wheel. Pads, discs and fluid all wear or age, and all three affect how well and how evenly the car stops.
What’s included in a brake inspection?
We measure pad and disc thickness, check for uneven wear, inspect calipers and slide pins, check hoses and lines for leaks or damage, check fluid level and condition, and test handbrake operation. On the road, we check for pulling, vibration and noise.
Why fix brake noise early?
Many pads have wear indicators that squeal when the pads are low. If they’re ignored, the pads wear down to the metal backing and score the discs, which turns a pad replacement into a pad-and-disc job — and reduces braking performance in the meantime.
Questions worth asking your mechanic
Whoever works on your car, these questions help you understand the job and the quote:
- How much pad material is left, front and rear?
- Can the discs be reused, or do they need replacing?
- When was the brake fluid last changed?
- Are both sides of the axle being done together?
From our workshop
Recent jobs photographed at our Sunshine North workshop.
Frequently asked questions
How often should brake fluid be replaced?
Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point. Manufacturers usually specify a replacement interval in years — check your logbook or ask us.
Do I need new discs every time I replace pads?
Not always. Discs are measured against their minimum thickness and checked for runout and damage. We'll tell you whether they can be reused.
Are brakes checked in a roadworthy inspection?
Yes. Transport Victoria lists brakes among the items checked during a roadworthy inspection.