Brakes are one of the most important safety systems in any vehicle. Whether you’re driving through the town centre in Wellington or navigating the busier roads of Telford, having fully functional brakes is essential. Yet many drivers ignore early warning signs that their braking system needs attention - often until it’s too late.
At Brooklands Auto Centre, we regularly help local drivers spot and fix brake issues before they become dangerous. Here are the top five signs to look out for that may indicate your brakes need inspecting or repairing:
1. Squeaking or Grinding Noises
If you hear a high-pitched squeal or harsh grinding noise when applying the brakes, your brake pads may be worn down. Grinding usually means the pads have worn completely and metal is now contacting metal — which can damage your brake discs and increase stopping distance.
2. Vibrations or Juddering
If your steering wheel or brake pedal vibrates when braking, it could be due to warped brake discs. This is often caused by overheating, and it reduces your control during emergency braking.
3. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal
When your brake pedal feels soft or spongy underfoot, there may be air in the hydraulic system or a leak in the brake lines. This significantly reduces braking performance and should be looked at immediately.
4. Increased Stopping Distances
Have you noticed that it takes longer to stop than it used to? Whether you’re braking on dry tarmac or a rainy Telford afternoon, increased stopping distances are a serious safety hazard. Worn pads, discs, or tyres could all be contributing factors.
5. Brake Warning Light
Never ignore the brake warning light on your dashboard. It could be signalling low brake fluid, worn pads, or another system fault. Bring your vehicle to a professional garage like Brooklands as soon as possible to diagnose the issue.
Our experienced technicians offer comprehensive brake inspections and repairs in Wellington, using high-quality parts and modern diagnostic tools. We’ll check pads, discs, calipers, fluid, and more to ensure your vehicle is safe and road-legal.
Book a Brake Check Today
If you’ve noticed any of the above symptoms, don’t delay. Visit Brooklands Auto Centre for a brake service you can trust. We serve drivers across Wellington and Telford, providing honest advice and affordable repairs that put safety first.
