When you tap your brakes, the brake’s hydraulics system applies the necessary force that causes the brake pads to create enough friction and heat that will slow your car.  When the brakes can no longer create the necessary friction and heat to slow your car, your brakes are failing.  There are warning signs that will signal to you that you need to change your brakes.

⦁    If your anti-lock brake system (ABS) light turns on, this could signal a wiring or electrical problem.

⦁    Take a listen to your brakes.  If your brakes are squealing or grinding, this could mean your brake pads are wearing thin.  The grinding could be the rotors being worn out.  If your brakes are clicking, this could mean your spring mechanism that holds your brakes in place is either broken or has come loose. 

⦁    If your brakes are pulsating or if the wheel gets shaky every time you hit the brakes, this could mean your drum or rotors are warped.

⦁    If your car has excess drag when you accelerate, this could signal that you have built up rust on your emergency brakes.

⦁    If you experience a “pull” to one side or the other while pressing on the brakes, this could mean you have frozen brakes, brakes that are out of alignment or you are leaking fluid on the brake pads or shoes.

⦁    If you experience a soft or spongy feel when you apply the brakes, this could mean there is excess air in the brakes.
These symptoms should not be ignored.  If ignored, they could lead to larger problems.  If you are experiencing any of the above, call your local mechanic for a brake inspection.





Source:
eSurance (n.d.)  Know When Your Brakes Are Failing.  Retrieved from http://www.esurance.com/safety/know-your-brakes