Signs you need brake repair
- Squealing or squeaking when you brake
- Grinding or scraping metal sound
- Brake pedal feels soft, spongy or sinks
- Vibration or pulsing in the pedal or steering wheel
- Vehicle pulls to one side when braking
- Brake warning or ABS light is on
- Longer stopping distances than usual
- Burning smell or hot wheel after driving
- Brake fluid leak near a wheel
If the brake pedal goes to the floor, the brake warning light is on with a soft pedal, or you hear metal grinding, do not drive the vehicle; have the mechanic come to it. Never get under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
Common causes
Worn brake padsPads wear down with use. Many have a small metal tab that squeals when they get thin, and grinding means the pad may be down to metal.
Worn or warped rotorsRotors wear thin and can develop uneven surfaces that cause pedal pulsing and vibration.
Sticking caliperA seized caliper piston or slide pin can drag a brake, causing pulling, heat and uneven pad wear.
Old or contaminated brake fluidBrake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which can lower its boiling point and corrode parts inside the system.
Leaking hose, line or caliperA leak lets fluid escape and air in, leading to a soft pedal and reduced braking.
ABS sensor or wiring faultA damaged wheel speed sensor or wire can turn on the ABS light and disable anti-lock braking.
Rear drum brake wearMany trucks and older cars use rear drums, whose shoes and hardware wear and need adjustment.
What gets done where it's parked, and what needs a shop
Usually done on site
- Brake inspection with pad and rotor measurements
- Front and rear brake pad replacement
- Rotor replacement
- Caliper and caliper bracket replacement
- Brake hose replacement
- Brake fluid flush and bleeding
- Drum brake shoe and hardware service
- ABS wheel speed sensor testing and replacement
May need a shop or lift
- Rusted or leaking steel brake lines that run the length of the vehicle
- ABS module or hydraulic unit repair
- Vehicles parked on soft ground, a steep slope or a busy street where jacking is unsafe
- Heavy duty air brake systems, which need a mechanic who lists that equipment
Every mechanic's setup is different. The one who accepts your request will tell you if your job needs a shop.
Before the mechanic arrives
- Park on firm, level pavement with room around each wheel
- Tell the mechanic about any noise, pulling or pedal changes and when they happen
- Have the wheel lock key ready if your wheels use locking lug nuts
- Mention your last brake service if you know it
- Check with your property manager or HOA if they limit repair work in parking areas
Photos of warning lights, leaks or damage help the mechanic bring the right parts. You can add up to five with your request.
Questions to ask when you get a quote
- What are the pad and rotor measurements, and what is actually worn?
- Are you quoting front, rear or both axles?
- Do the rotors need replacing, or can they stay?
- What grade of pads and rotors are you using?
- Does the brake fluid need changing?
- Is there any sign of a sticking caliper or leaking hose?
Trackara never handles payment for the work. You agree the price with the mechanic before they start, and you pay them directly. How to read a repair quote.
Vehicles this applies to
Brake repair: questions and answers
Yes. Brake pads, rotors and calipers are some of the most common mobile repairs. The mechanic needs firm, level ground and room to remove each wheel. If your parking spot is not safe for jacking, they may suggest another location.
A light squeal can come from a wear indicator, dust or moisture. It is a sign to get the brakes inspected soon. Grinding, a soft pedal or a brake warning light is more serious, and the vehicle should not be driven until it is checked.
Not always. Rotors are replaced when they are below the minimum thickness, badly scored or causing vibration. Ask the mechanic to show you the measurements before agreeing to rotors.
Many can. Trailer electric brakes and RV chassis brakes are common mobile jobs, and some mechanics specialize in them. See trailer axle, hitch and brake repair for trailer-specific work.
Send a free repair request describing the noise or feel and your vehicle details. The mechanic who accepts will inspect and quote before starting, and you pay them directly.