How Often Should I Get My Brakes Checked?

Brake Maintenance Schedule

Every vehicle has a recommended maintenance schedule. It includes specific recommendations for things like oil changes and battery replacement. However, your brakes depend on how you drive. For example, hitting the brake pedal hard and often is going to cause you to need new brake pads or more brake fluid before you would if you were to come to a safe, gradual stop.

Since there’s no set mileage interval for brake maintenance, technicians will inspect your brake system during you regular maintenance appointments. They’ll look over everything, from the brake pads and brake lines to your rotors and how much brake fluid you have.

Brake Repair Warning Signs

What about when you’re not due for maintenance for a while? How do you know if your brakes need service? Fortunately, your vehicle offers a few warning signs. Schedule service if you notice any of the following:

• Squeaky brakes—If your brakes squeak when you use them, there’s a good chance your brake pads are worn and need to be replaced.
• Sinking brake pedal—If it ever feels like you need to press the brake pedal all the way to the floor before you start slowing down, odds are you’re low on brake fluid.
• Drifting to the side—When you notice that your car drifts to the same side whenever you use the brakes, it’s most likely caused by a leak in one of your brake lines.
• Grinding sound—A warped or cracked rotor can cause your brakes to sound like grinding metal when you use them.
• Dashboard warning lights—There are a few warning lights for your brakes you should be familiar with. The letters ABS mean there’s a problem with your anti-lock braking system. A light that says BRAKE often means there’s a problem with the main brake system.