Do you know how important it is to have a safe and reliable braking system on your car? It's more than just an inconvenience when your brakes fail. When that happens, the results can be deadly. And if you're in an accident, then not only are you at risk of serious injury or death but also anyone else who might be involved in the crash. That's why everyone needs to make sure they get professional brake repair service at least once a year. Here are some warning signs that could indicate something is wrong with your brakes.

1. Your Brakes Are Making Strange Noises

You know those squeaks and squeals you hear as you're braking? It's not normal. If it sounds like something's stuck in your brakes, then that probably is the problem, and it needs to be addressed immediately. The noises could be a result of a foreign particle stuck in the brake system. It could also be a result of metal-on-metal contact. Still, the point is that you need to take your car in for a brake inspection ASAP before something major happens.

2. Your Brake Pedal Feels Loose or Spongy

When you couple this with the brake making strange noises, then that's a definite sign that your car needs professional brake repair service. What's happening is that there is air in the brake lines. Professional brake repair service can fix this problem quickly and before it becomes dangerous for everyone involved.

3. You Can See Rust Around Your Brake Discs or Calipers

Rust around your brake discs has many causes, but none are good. This can result in a total failure of your brakes and should be addressed immediately.

4. Your Car Pulls to One Side When Braking

Another sign of a problem with your brakes, if your car pulls to one side when you brake, especially under full braking power, something isn't right with your vehicle's braking system. Take it to a professional for servicing.

5. You Notice a Lack of Stopping Power

If you notice that your car isn't stopping as quickly as it should, even though your pedal feels normal, this is another sign there's a problem with the braking system. If you slam on the brake and there's any kind of delay or hesitation, then something is wrong. Get to a brake mechanic sooner rather than later.

Having looked at the warning signs, here are the benefits of professional brake repair.

1. You Want Your Car to Be Safe

Your car's braking system is one of the most important safety features on your vehicle. It's essential to have your brakes working properly at all times. When a problem arises, you want to have it fixed as quickly as possible so that it doesn't worsen. If you try driving your car with faulty brakes and something happens, then not only is the damage going to be much more extensive, but it could cost you your life. According to Offtherecord.com, to keep moisture out of the brake system, you should change your brake fluid every 24,000 miles or every two years — whichever comes first.

2. You Want Longer Lasting Brakes

One of the main reasons you need to have your vehicle's brakes repaired regularly is that it helps maintain brake integrity. If you neglect this, then all kinds of problems can arise, which will put your life at risk. You might even end up having to replace your rotors or drums.

3. Avoid Costly Repairs Down the Road

Brake repair is a much more cost-effective solution than replacing your rotors, drums, or even an entire braking system. And sometimes, it's just a quick repair that you need to have done because of worn-out brake pads.

The warning signs for faulty brakes are pretty easy to spot. And if you see them, then it's time for professional brake repair service. At Kurt's Auto and Truck Center Inc., we've been proudly serving drivers in Rockford, IL, since 1974. We are family-owned and offer competitive prices on brake repair service for all makes and models of foreign and domestic vehicles. Give us a call to schedule an appointment or come into our auto repair shop any time that works best for you.