6 Signs your brakes need changing
25 August 2025
Your brakes are one of the most important safety features on your car. Worn or faulty brakes can significantly increase your stopping distance, putting you, your passengers, and other road users at risk. But how do you know when it’s time to change your brakes?
In this blog, we will get straight to it. Making it easy for you to navigate the issues and when to get them checked out by a professional.
Why Brake Maintenance Is So Important
Your braking system keeps you safe on the road. Over time, brake pads and discs wear down due to friction, heat, and general use. If left unchecked, worn brakes can cause:
- Longer stopping distances
- Reduced braking performance in wet conditions
- Damage to other brake components
- Higher repair costs in the long run
- Potential crashes
If you suspect your brakes are worn, you can book a brake check via our car brake services page.
Common Signs That Your Brakes Need Changing
1. Squealing or Grinding Noises
One of the most common indicators of worn brake pads is a high-pitched squealing sound when braking. This noise is caused by a small metal wear indicator built into the pads, designed to alert you when they’re nearly worn out.
If you hear a grinding noise, it’s a sign the pads have worn completely, and the metal of the calliper is scraping against the brake disc. This is a serious issue that requires urgent attention.
2. Brake Warning Light on Your Dashboard
Modern cars have a brake system warning light. If it comes on, it could indicate:
- Low brake fluid levels
- Worn brake pads
- A problem with the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
If this happens, check your vehicle handbook for guidance and book a brake inspection as soon as possible.
3. Vibrations or Pulsations When Braking
If you feel vibrations through the brake pedal when slowing down, it could mean your brake discs are warped. Warped discs can affect braking efficiency and should be replaced to maintain safety.
4. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal
A brake pedal that feels soft, spongy, or sinks to the floor may indicate:
- Air in the brake lines
- A brake fluid leak
- Worn brake pads
This can be dangerous and should be checked immediately.
5. Car Pulls to One Side
If your car pulls to the left or right when braking, it could be due to:
- Uneven brake pad wear
- A stuck calliper
- Issues with the brake fluid or hose
6. Burning Smell After Heavy Braking
A strong, chemical-like burning smell after hard braking could mean your brakes are overheating. This can reduce braking power temporarily (brake fade) and damage components if it happens often.
How Often Should You Replace Your Brakes?
There’s no set mileage for when brakes should be replaced because it depends on:
- Driving style
- Type of brake pads used
- Driving environment (city driving vs. motorway)
As a general guide:
- Brake pads: every 25,000–70,000 miles
- Brake discs: every 30,000–70,000 miles
However, regular car servicing can catch problems early and extend the life of your braking system.
How do I prevent issues with my brakes?
- Don’t ride your brake excessively: if you are putting your foot on the brake when there is no need, your brake pads will be more prone to wearing down.
- Avoid city driving (if you don’t live in one!): driving in a city causes you to stop and start more often, which then leads to increased wear and tear on your brakes.
- Reduce weight in your vehicle: a heavy loaded vehicle causes more momentum when the car is moving which, in turn, can put pressure on your brakes.
- Avoid sudden braking: drivers who keep enough distance between them and other cars, can reduce their speed gradually without needing to slam on the brakes. This prevents the brakes from wearing out over time.
Book Your Brake Check with Setyres
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, don’t wait until it’s too late.
At Setyres, we offer expert brake inspections and replacements to keep you safe on the road. Our trained mechanics can identify wear, replace components, and ensure your braking system is working correctly.
Stay safe. Stay in control.
Book your brake check online today and drive with confidence.