Top 7 Signs To Watch For When Your Brakes Need Replacing
As your go-to auto repair shop in Seattle, WA, High Road Automotive knows how important it is to ensure your brakes work correctly in the Pacific NorthWest’s rainy weather. Whether you own a hybrid or conventional car, your brakes are essential for your safety on the road.
In this article, we’ll give the top 7 signs to watch for when it’s time to replace your brakes, so you can stay informed and keep your vehicle running smoothly.
Brake Pads Wear Out
As we all know, brake pads wear out over time, and replacing them is important before they become a safety hazard. If you hear a grinding or scraping noise when you apply the brakes, it’s likely that the brake pads have worn down too much and need replacing immediately. Our ASE-Certified technicians inspect your brake pads and replace them with high-quality parts to ensure your vehicle’s braking system works correctly.
Squeaking or Squealing Noises
Another common sign that your brakes need replacing is a squeaking or squealing noise when you apply the brakes. A small metal shim often causes this noise called an indicator designed to make a noise when your brake pads wear down. If you hear this noise, bring your vehicle to High Road Automotive for an inspection.

Brake Rotors in a vehicle
Brake Pedal Vibrations
If you feel a pulsing or vibrating sensation when you brake, it’s a sign that the brake rotors may be warped or damaged. Several factors can cause this, including driving on steep hills or carrying heavy loads. Our technicians can inspect your brake rotors and repair or replace them.
The car Pulls to One Side
If your car pulls to either side when you apply the brakes, it’s a sign that the brakes may be unevenly worn. Many factors, including uneven tire pressure or worn suspension components, can cause this. At High Road Automotive, our technicians can diagnose the issue and provide you with the necessary repairs to get your brakes back in working order.
Burning Smell
If you smell a burning odor from your brakes, it’s a sign that they may be overheating. This can be caused by many factors, including driving on steep hills or carrying heavy loads. Overheated brakes can cause a loss of braking power and potentially cause a dangerous situation. Bring your vehicle to High Road Automotive if you smell a burning odor from your brakes so that we can diagnose and fix the issue.
Longer Stopping Distance
If you notice that your car takes longer to stop than usual, it’s a sign that your brakes may be worn down or damaged. Worn brake pads or damaged brake rotors, can cause this. At High Road Automotive, we can inspect your brakes and provide you with the necessary repairs to ensure your vehicle is safe on the road.
Brake Warning Light
Finally, if your brake warning light comes on, it’s a sign that your braking system has detected an issue. If you see the brake warning light, bring your vehicle to High Road Automotive, and we’ll diagnose and fix the issue to ensure your safety on the road.
Your braking system is essential for your safety on the road, and keeping it in good working condition is vital. At High Road Automotive, we take the safety of our clients seriously, and we recommend you pay attention to the signs that your brakes may need replacing. Whether you hear squeaking or squealing noises, feel a pulsing sensation in your brake pedal, or notice a longer stopping distance, our certified technicians are ready to help you get back on the road safely.
If you’re in Seattle and need brake repair or replacement, contact us at High Road Automotive. We specialize in hybrid vehicle repair and use only high-quality parts to ensure your vehicle’s braking system works at its best. Your safety is our top priority, and we look forward to serving you.
Come to High Road Automotive in Seattle, WA., your partner in auto repair, and we’ll help you keep your brakes in top shape with our preventative maintenance services! Please schedule an appointment today and see what makes us so popular in Ballard & beyond!
High Road Automotive Is Hiring An Experienced Automotive Technician!
We’re hiring an experienced automotive technician at High Road Auto Repair! We specialize in all vehicle types, including hybrid vehicles, and we have a special dedication to customer service and community. If you want the next step in your automotive technician career, apply to High Road Automotive today!
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