Full control of your vehicle is essential to staying safe on the road. For that reason, understanding when you need brake repairs ensures you can stop smoothly and quickly, helping you avoid accidents. However, your brakes may experience issues before they trigger the warning light on your dashboard, which means you should recognize indications that they are failing. Below are several tips to help you spot problems.

How Can You Tell When Brakes Are Malfunctioning?

1. Shaking

Slowing down, especially on highways or interstates at higher speeds, can create some level of vibration that translates to the steering wheel. However, an intense shaking that occurs at any speed indicates an issue with your brake rotors. These components clamp the brake pads and create the necessary friction to slow the vehicle. 

Over time, the rotors can wear down and warp. When this happens, you will notice jostling in the wheel and pedal as the pads push against uneven surfaces. Along with the vibrations, the brakes will not be as effective because they aren't producing as much friction.

2. Loud Noise

Brake pads have metal indicators in them that emit a loud squeal when the base material wears away. This lets you know that the pads are reaching the end of their life spans so that you can replace them soon. However, if you've allowed them to wear down for too long, the metal in the pads can rub the metal of the rotors. This combination results in a loud grinding or screeching noise.

After reaching this level of wear, an immediate reaction is necessary to avoid full brake failure. Along with new pads, you may also need to replace the rotors if the grinding damaged them.

3. Pulling

The calipers control the level of force the pads place on the rotors. When functioning incorrectly, the pressure can be uneven between the two front tires. As a result, you may feel the wheels pulling more in one direction when braking. This issue limits your control behind the wheel and causes the vehicle to pull too far in one direction, increasing your risk of an accident. Immediate break repair is necessary to prevent a collision.

When you need expert brake repair to keep you safe on the road, contact AutoTech Transmissions in Phoenix, AZ. These local mechanics provide convenient, dependable, and affordable maintenance services. They offer everything from electrical diagnostics to transmission and engine repair. Visit them online for more information about their services. Call (480) 256-8866 to schedule a brake repair appointment.