When you rely on your car to get you to and from where you need to go every day, you need to makes sure that all of the parts are in good shape and functioning properly, including your brakes. However, if you are not a car expert, you may not know what steps you need to take to maintain your brakes or the signs that you are in need of brake repairs. Get to know some of the steps you should take to maintain your brakes and the signs they need repairs so that you can be sure that you are taking the best possible care of your vehicle. 

Get Routine Brake Inspections

One of the best possible ways that you can care for and maintain the brakes on your vehicle is to take your car in for routine brake inspections. Your car's brakes have many different parts including brake pads, rotors, calipers, and hoses (among several other components). All of these components need to be functioning as they should and in good shape for your braking system to work properly.

As such, it is important that around once a year (or more frequently if you put a great deal of mileage on your vehicle), that you have a comprehensive brake inspection performed by an auto mechanic. They will take a look at all of the parts of your braking system, replace worn down brake pads, and perform any other basic tuning or adjustments that your brakes will need from standard wear and tear.

Know the Signs of Brake Problems

Because there are so many parts to your vehicle's braking system, there are also many ways that your brakes can show signs of trouble. Squeaking brakes are one of the most common signs of brake issues and indicate that your brake pads are worn down and in need of replacement.

Another common sign is a shaking or shuddering sensation when you try to slow to a stop while you are driving. Other signs include needing to press down hard on the brakes to even slow down a little, grinding sounds when braking, and your vehicle feeling as if it is pulling to the side when you are trying to slow down.

If your vehicle shows any of these signs of brake problems, it is imperative that you take it in to a brake repair shop as soon as possible. Leaving your brakes in poor condition for prolonged periods of time can result in severe damage which could cause you to be in an auto accident due to brake failure.

Now that you better understand how to maintain your brakes and recognize signs of trouble, you can be sure that you are doing everything you can to keep your vehicle in top shape.