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Brake advice

How do I know when my brakes need to be repaired or replaced?

Knowing when your brakes need to be repaired can be confusing that is why we like to educate our customers and give you common warning signs that your brakes need attention.

A technician showing a customer a worn brake pad next to a new one

Brake Warning Signs

PULL

Vehicle pulls to one side when brakes are applied.

GRAB

“Touchy” brakes that grab with the least amount of pressure.

DRAG

Sticking brakes, hot wheels or engine, which seems to have lost power.

SQUEAL

Some brake noise is normal; however, constant groaning, grinding or squealing is not.

LOW PEDAL

Pedal nearly touches the floorboard before brakes function.

HARD PEDAL

Requires an extreme amount of pressure to make brakes function.

VIBRATION

Brake pedal, steering wheel or entire vehicle shakes, vibrates or pulses when brake is applied.

MILEAGE

Brakes are “out of sight, out of mind.” Remember yours at least once a year, even if none of the above symptoms are present.

BRAKE WARNING LIGHT

Emergency brake is on, low brake fluid or a drop in Hydraulic pressure.

Your free brake inspection includes:

Disc brake: rotor, caliper, pads, fluid line, hardware and hub 1 2 3 4 5 6
    Worn outBrake pad thicknessBrand new

    Measured, not guessed. New pads start around 12 mm. We start the conversation near 3 mm, and you see the number.

    No pressure. Just answers.

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    Quality parts at low prices, an honest look at what your car needs, and a guarantee that travels with you to any Budget Brakes.

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