Your vehicle’s brakes are one of its most important safety systems, allowing you to avoid dangerous situations on the road. When your brakes begin to wear out or malfunction, the warning signs often start small—but they can quickly escalate into serious safety hazards if ignored. Staying alert to changes in how your brakes sound, feel, and perform can help you catch problems early. At Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Orlando area. Here are four common signs that your vehicle may need brake repair.

Unusual Noises

A high-pitched squeaking sound often indicates worn brake pads with built-in wear indicators designed to alert you when it’s time for replacement. Grinding noises, however, are more serious—they usually mean the brake pads are completely worn down and metal is scraping against metal. Driving with grinding brakes can damage the rotors and lead to expensive repairs, so it’s important to have the system inspected right away.

Vibrations

If you feel vibrations when pressing down on the brake pedal, it could be a sign of warped brake rotors. Rotors can warp due to heat buildup from heavy braking. Warped rotors reduce braking efficiency and cause uneven stopping power, making it more difficult to control the vehicle. 

Spongy Brake Pedal

A brake pedal that feels soft, spongy, or sinks toward the floor is a major red flag. This sensation often indicates air in the brake lines or a problem with the brake fluid, such as a leak. Because braking ability is significantly compromised when the pedal is soft, it’s critical to address this issue immediately for your safety.

Dashboard Brake Warning Light

Most modern vehicles are equipped with sensors that trigger a brake warning light on the dashboard when something is wrong. This could be related to low brake fluid, worn brake pads, or another issue. Even if the vehicle seems to stop normally, a brake warning light should never be ignored. It’s an early signal that your braking system needs professional attention.

Brake Repair in Orlando, FL

For expert auto repair in Orlando and the surrounding area, contact Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers at 407-502-4984. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment for car care in greater Orlando!