Six signs your brakes need attention

Brakes wear gradually, so problems creep up on you. Catching them early is the difference between a cheap pad replacement and a much bigger bill for discs or calipers — and it keeps you safe.

What to listen and feel for

• A high-pitched squeal is the wear indicator telling you the pads are low.
• Grinding means the pads are gone and metal is scoring the disc — stop driving and get it looked at.
• A soft or spongy pedal can mean air or fluid in the system.
• Pulling to one side under braking points to uneven wear or a stuck caliper.
• Vibration through the pedal is usually warped discs.
• A brake warning light on the dash should never be ignored.

Don't put it off

Brakes are the one system where the fix only gets more expensive the longer you wait. If you notice any of these signs, book a brake inspection — most workshops will check them and give you a quote without obligation.