When it comes to car brakes, there is no room for substandard or worn out parts. Routine maintenance of brakes should be done at least once a year, but it’s better to learn to recognise the signs warning of problems before an accident happens.

Visual inspection

Simple brake maintenance doesn’t even require you to get your hands dirty. Start by raising the bonnet and inspecting the master cylinder level. The brake fluid system is a closed one, so if the fluid level in the reservoir is low, you’ve got a problem.

If your car has alloy wheels with gaps in the middle, you can peep through the hole to inspect the brake pads and disc. If there are any rough spots or pronounced grooves in the disc, it should be replaced.

Check the brake pad that is touching the disc. If there is 1/8 inch or less remaining on the pad, it’s time to replace it.

Problem indicators

Noise is one of the leading indicators that something is wrong. Other symptoms of problems may include dragging or grinding brakes, squealing while braking, a low brake pedal or pulling when braking.

If the brake pedal begins to feel spongy, it could be a sign that air has entered the system or the brake fluid level is low. Another sign of trouble is a brake pedal that seems lower than normal. When the brakes are applied, the calliper or wheel cylinder pistons must travel a greater distance before the rear brakes begin to apply.

If the brake light on the dashboard stays lit after releasing the hand brake, something is wrong in the braking system. However, this warning light has multiple meanings, so you need to refer to the owner’s manual.

For cars with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), this light normally comes on when you start the car and then switches off a few seconds later. If it stays on or starts blinking, it means the ABS computer has picked up a problem.

Brake fluid

Brake fluid is a specially formulated liquid used in the brake hydraulic system and its job is to maintain a stable viscosity throughout its operating temperature range. The fluid can become contaminated in two years or less. This is because it absorbs moisture, which works its way through the hydraulic system.

Moisture can rust the inside of the brake system. And if rust accumulates, it can do a lot of internal damage to the car. Brake fluid can also break down over time from excess heat created from within the brake system.

Fluid replacement is recommended every two years or after a certain mileage determined by the manufacturer. You may have to change the fluid sooner if the vehicle is used in frequent heavy braking conditions like uphill driving. Replacement should be done together with a brake pad replacement. In between, your mechanic should check the condition of the fluid as a preventive measure.