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Brakes are one of the most critical safety components of any heavy-duty truck. When they fail, you put yourself and others at risk of serious harm and potentially even death. In fact, brake failure is responsible for 2.6 million crashes every year.
Recognizing the early warning signs of brake trouble can prevent costly repairs and, more importantly, accidents. That’s why we asked our expert mechanics to name some of the most common signs your brakes are failing so you can always stay one step ahead.
1. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal
If your brake pedal feels soft or sinks to the floor when you press it, there could be an issue with your air brake system. A loss of air pressure in an air brake system can result in a dangerous brake failure, so this issue should be checked immediately before you hit the road.
2. Grinding or Squealing Noises
Loud squealing, squeaking, or grinding sounds when braking usually mean your brake pads or brake shoes are worn down. If left unchecked, metal-on-metal contact can damage your brake drums or rotors, leading to costly repairs.
3. Truck Pulling to One Side
If your truck veers to the left or right when you brake, it could be due to:
- Uneven brake shoe wear
- A stuck slack adjuster
- Air brake imbalance
This not only reduces stopping power but can also make steering unpredictable, especially in wet or icy conditions.
4. A Burning Smell Near the Wheels
A strong, burning odor from your wheels can signal overheating brakes. This happens when brake shoes or drums get too hot, reducing braking efficiency and increasing the risk of brake fade or complete failure. If you smell something burning, pull over and inspect the brakes immediately.
5. Brake Warning Light on the Dashboard
If your brake system warning light or ABS light comes on, don’t ignore it. This could indicate:
- An issue with your ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
- A problem with the air brake system
- Continuing to drive with a brake system warning light can lead to serious safety risks.
6. Increased Stopping Distance
If it takes longer than usual to stop your truck, your brakes are losing their effectiveness. This could be due to:
- Worn-out brake pads
- Air system leaks in an air brake setup
- Glazed brake drums
Ignoring this sign can be dangerous, especially when hauling heavy loads or driving downhill.
7. Air Brake System Leaks or Pressure Loss
Air leaks or pressure drops can lead to brake failure for trucks with air brake systems. Listen for a hissing sound when you press the pedal or check your air pressure gauge for sudden drops. If your air pressure falls below the safe operating level, your emergency brakes could automatically engage, causing a sudden stop.
How to Prevent Brake Failure
- Perform daily pre-trip inspections to check for leaks, low air pressure, and worn brake components.
- Monitor your brake pads and drums for excessive wear.
- Drain air tanks regularly to remove moisture buildup in air brake systems.
- Get professional routine brake maintenance at a trusted shop like Reed Repair
Final Thoughts
Your truck’s brakes are its most important safety feature. If you notice any of these warning signs, don’t wait—get your brakes inspected and repaired before hitting the road. We specialize in heavy-duty brake maintenance and repair at Reed Repair in Rapid City, SD, keeping your truck safe and compliant!
