How do you know when it's time for a brake inspection?
Your brakes are one of the most important safety systems in your vehicle. If you notice any warning signs that they’re not performing properly, it’s time to schedule a brake inspection as soon as possible.
Bonus for October 2025: From October 1–31, you can support our Brakes for Breasts Fundraiser and receive free brake pads for your vehicle! Click here to learn more about Brakes for Breasts and how you can participate this year.
Keep reading for 5 common signs that it might be time to book your brake inspection — and why it’s so important to address brake concerns early.
1. Strange Sounds
Are your brakes making a squealing or screeching noise when you brake? Many brake pads have a built-in wear indicator that will squeal when the pads are ready to be replaced. If you hear these sounds, it’s a potential sign that your brake pads need attention. However, this isn’t always the case. Squealing can also happen due to dust or moisture on the brake components, especially after the vehicle has been sitting for a while. If the noise continues, we recommend a brake inspection to determine whether it’s time to replace your brake pads.
2. Vehicle Pulling to One Side
If your car begins to pull to one side while driving or braking, this could be a sign of uneven brake pad wear. It could also be due to a concern with the brake calipers or brake fluid. However, pulling can also be caused by tire or alignment concerns. It’s important to have these things checked as well. Our technicians will help determine the exact cause to ensure your vehicle is stopping safely and driving smoothly.
3. Vibrating Brake Pedal
Does your brake pedal vibrate or pulse when you press down? This can often be a sign of warped brake rotors. However, it could also point to uneven tire wear, improper wheel alignment, or suspension concerns. If you feel these vibrations during normal braking conditions, it’s time to have your brakes inspected to determine the exact cause.
4. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal
A mushy or soft brake pedal can be a sign of worn out brake pads, low brake fluid, or a concern with the hydraulic system, such as air in the brake lines. It’s important to note that low brake fluid could be the result of a leak. If your brake pedal feels soft or spongy, it’s important to schedule a brake inspection. We want to address any underlying concerns and ensure that your brakes are working effectively, to help keep you safe.
5. Thin or Worn Brake Pads
If your brake pads are between 3–5 mm thick (or around 1/8 inch) it’s time to consider replacing them soon. If your pads are 3 mm or less, it’s time to replace them immediately. We want to ensure that you can fully rely on your brakes, especially in an emergency situation. Our technicians will measure your brake pads during your brake inspection and make recommendations for any necessary parts to replace.
Coming October 2025: The Brakes for Breasts Fundraiser!
This October marks our sixth year participating in the Brakes for Breasts Fundraiser. Since 2011, independent auto repair shops have helped raise over $2 million! 100% of what we raise goes to Dr. Tuohy's breast cancer research program. In October our customers get free brake pads, then we donate 10% of those brake services to the fundraiser!
At Graham Auto Repair, it’s our goal to ensure you get the best performance and long-term value from your brakes. For this reason, we’ve joined up with O’Reilly Auto Parts again this year. Through our partnership, we’re able to offer you premium-quality brake pads for free! We’re excited to do this while also joining in the fight against breast cancer.
Here's how you can participate:
- Book a brake inspection to find out if it's time for new brakes.
- Receive premium-quality brake pads for free when we replace them in October.
- You'll only pay for labor and any other necessary parts to complete the repair.
- We'll donate 10% of your brake service to the Brakes for Breast Fundraiser!
Offer valid October 1–31, 2025. Cannot be combined with other discounts or coupons.
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