Brake Troubleshooting Guide
For Common Brake Problems

This brake troubleshooting guide explains problems you might be having with your brakes and how they can be fixed. Click on the links below for causes and solutions for each brake problem listed. Many of these problems effect braking performance and should be inspected and fixed as soon as possible.

Squeaking brakes

Pulsating brakes

Spongy brakes

Grinding brakes

Dragging brakes

Excessive pedal effort needed to stop vehicle

Excessive pedal travel needed to stop vehicle

Pedal goes to floor when brakes are applied

Vehicle pulls to one side during braking

Pedal requires multiple pumps to stop vehicle

Low brake fluid level, keep having to refill

Sticking parking brake

Brake warning light comes on (different than ABS and parking brake light)

Front brakes lock up before rears

Rear brakes lock up before fronts

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