Brake problems can be very serious. If it feels like your brakes aren't working properly, don't drive your car. Instead, have it towed to an auto shop for an inspection and repairs. If you pay close attention to your car and your driving, you can often pick up on brake trouble before the condition gets so bad you have to have your car towed. Here are some of the signs to watch for.

Squealing And Grinding When you Hit The Brakes

Your brakes are normally quiet, so if they start making noise when you step on them, you should pay attention. The noise at first will be a squeaking or squealing sound that indicates the pads are getting worn. The big problem comes when the grinding noises start. When you hear metal grinding against metal when you hit the brakes, that means the pads are worn through. Driving with pads in this condition is dangerous and it also causes costly damage to your brakes.

Loose Feeling When You Press The Pedal

New brake pads are thick and they gradually get worn down as you use the brakes. When the pads are still thick, you only need to tap the brakes to bring your car to a stop. When the brakes are worn out, you may have to push the pedal all the way to the floor to stop your car. If you notice a sudden change in the way your brakes feel, you should take your car to a shop right away. A slow, gradual change is normal, but you want to have the pads replaced before they get so thin you car doesn't respond quickly when you make a sudden stop.

Shuddering And Pulling When You Brake

Brakes can develop problems other than thin and worn out pads. These problems often show up through vibrations and pulling. If it feels like your car pulls to one side when you push on the brakes, it could be an indication of problems with the braking mechanisms. You should have a mechanic take a look even if it seems like your brakes work okay. Also, you may feel a vibration when you use the brakes. The vibration could be strong enough that it feels like your car shudders. This could be due to worn pads or bad rotors.

If you notice any unusual noises, odors, or sensations when you hit the brakes on your car, have your car checked out by a mechanic. You don't want your brakes to fail when you're driving on the interstate and cause you to have an accident. Also, driving with brake problems might cause damage to expensive parts of the brakes, which you might be able to avoid by having the brake pads replaced on time. To learn more, contact a company like Valley  Express Auto Repair.