Squealing, grinding or shaking? What your brakes are telling you.

Squealing

Most pads have a small metal tab that squeals when they get thin. It's a reminder to schedule a brake job soon. It isn't an emergency yet.

Grinding

Grinding usually means the pad material is gone and metal is scraping the rotor. Every mile now costs you more, because the rotors get damaged too. Get it looked at right away.

Pulsing pedal or steering shake

If the pedal pulses or the wheel shakes when you brake, the rotors are likely uneven. New pads alone won't fix this. The rotors need replacing.

Soft or sinking pedal

A pedal that sinks toward the floor can mean air in the lines or a fluid leak. This one is a safety issue. Don't drive the car until it's checked.

Pulling to one side

A car that pulls when braking may have a sticking caliper or uneven pad wear. We check the calipers and slide pins during every brake job.