Beyond changing the fluids in your vehicle and keeping an eye on your tires, your brake system is one of the top systems that will require repair and maintenance over the years, as brake parts are only effective for a certain number of miles. As your brakes are so crucial to the safe use of your vehicle, it is essential to understand the warning signs your vehicle gives you when you need new brakes.

Sign #1: ABS Light

If you have a light that says "ABS" that illuminates on your dashboard, you are going to want to get your vehicle to the repair shop right away. The ABS light for your anti-lock braking system. When this light illuminates, it can send various codes to your vehicle's computer, which can be used to identify the issue with your ABS system. A repair shop can use a computer diagnostic system to read these codes and figure out what is happening with your brakes.

Sign #2: Squeaking Noise

Next, another common sign that your brakes need to be repaired is a squeaking noise when you are breaking. This comes from your brake pads, which take the brunt of the force when you brake and are designed to wear down over time. This sound is actually built into the design of the brake pads so that you know your pads are wearing down and need to be replaced soon.

Sign #3: Grinding Noise

A grinding noise can have two different brake-related causes. First, if you ignored the squeaking noise your brake pads were making, they may eventually start to make a grinding noise. This happens when the pads have worn so low that the metal on the pads is now grinding against the metal on the rotors. At this point, both your pads and rotors will need to be replaced.

The grinding sound may also be a sign that your brake calipers are failing. Each wheel has its own set of calipers. They are the part that squeezes the pad up against the rotor and allows your vehicle to slow down. A failing caliper is a serious issue.

If your brakes are making grinding noises, you shouldn't keep driving your vehicle around. You need to get it fixed immediately.

Sign #4: Soft Pedal

When you press on the brake pedal, it should have a certain degree of resistance to it. If the level of resistance feels less than normal, that is not a good sign. This could mean that your brake pads are worn down. Or, it could mean that you have a leak in your brake line, which can prevent your brakes from being able to work. This is another serious sign that shouldn't be ignored.

When you notice signs your brakes are not working as they should, don't ignore these signs. Instead, get your vehicle fixed right away to keep things running smoothly and, more importantly, safely. For more information about brake services, contact a local auto repair shop.