Let’s face it, nothing screams “awkward” quite like pulling up to the traffic lights with your brakes squealing louder than a teenager at a Harry Styles concert. But beyond the embarrassment, faulty brakes can lead to some pretty serious issues. According to a report from 2019 by the Department for Transport, malfunctioning brake parts contributed to 3,894 accidents that led to injuries or fatalities.
With that in mind, let’s look at four telltale signs that something is wrong with your brakes.
Damage to Brakes: Calipers and Discs
Your car’s brakes are like a well-choreographed dance, and when one dancer messes up, the whole routine can fall apart.
For example, if your brake pads are worn down to the nub, you risk damaging the brake discs. The pads squeeze the disc to stop your car, but when they’re worn out, it’s like sending a cheese grater to do a sponge’s job. The metal-on-metal grinding can cause some serious damage to your discs.
And that heat? It’s not just making your brakes angry; it can warp or crack the discs. Typically, discs outlast the pads, but if you neglect your pads, you’ll be shelling out more for repairs. Regular brake pad changes and inspections can help keep your brake system in tip-top shape and save you from a wallet workout.
Brakes Responding Slowly
The more worn your brakes get, the harder it is for them to stop your car. If it feels like you need Herculean strength to push the brakes, your pads might be the culprit.
Driving with over worn brakes can make your car take longer to stop, feel like it’s slipping when you brake, or even pull to one side. It’s like trying to run a marathon in flip-flops—you ain’t getting anywhere fast.
Vibrations During Braking
When everything’s working well, your car should stop smoothly. But with worn brake pads or damaged discs, you might feel like you’re driving a massage chair. If your car shakes or the steering wheel vibrates when you brake, it’s a sign to get those brakes checked out.
Faster Tyre Wear
Believe it or not, ignoring your brake pads can also wear out your tyres faster. When your brakes are shot, you might find yourself stomping on the pedal more often. All that hard braking can lead to quicker tyre wear and tear, making your tyres unbalanced and causing uneven wear. Taking care of your brakes is like giving your tyres a spa day—they’ll thank you for it.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Drive with Worn Brakes!
So, can you drive with worn brake pads? Sure, if you like living on the edge. But should you? Absolutely not—especially if they’re badly worn. Changing your brake pads regularly and servicing your brake system can extend the life of your brake components, keep you safe, and make driving more enjoyable.
A simple brake inspection could save you from a world of trouble. Yet, about 25% of drivers are cruising around with worn brakes! If it’s been a while since your last brake check, it’s time to visit a professional garage like CCM for an expert brake service. Keeping your brake system in top shape is crucial for staying safe on the road. Plus, it’ll help you avoid any more embarrassing stops at the lights.