How To Identify Symptoms Of Broken Subaru Brakes

Brakes are one of the most important safety components in any vehicle, and if they are malfunctioning, it can lead to serious safety hazards. Recognizing the symptoms of broken Subaru brakes early can prevent further damage to your vehicle and avoid costly repairs.

When your Subaru’s brake system is compromised, it is important to address the issue promptly to maintain your vehicle's safety and performance.

Unusual Noises When Braking

One of the first signs that something is wrong with your Subaru's brakes is unusual noises. Squealing, squeaking, or grinding sounds while applying the brakes can indicate that the brake pads are worn out.

The friction material on the pads wears down over time and leads to metal-to-metal contact when the brakes are applied. If you hear grinding sounds, it is a sign that your brake pads are severely worn, and the brake rotor may be damaged as well.

Vibrations or Pulsations While Braking

Another common symptom of broken Subaru brakes is when you feel vibrations or pulsations in the brake pedal while stopping. This can indicate an issue with the brake rotors.

Over time, rotors can become warped or uneven due to heat buildup from frequent braking. If the rotor surface is damaged, it can cause the brake pads to unevenly contact the surface, leading to a pulsating feel when the brakes are engaged.

Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal

If the brake pedal feels soft or spongy when pressed, it could be a sign of air or moisture in the brake lines, which may have compromised the hydraulic brake system. This symptom is often accompanied by a noticeable decrease in braking power, making it harder to stop the vehicle.

A soft brake pedal can also be a sign of low brake fluid levels or a brake fluid leak. It is important to have the brake system inspected and repaired as soon as you notice this issue.

Car Pulling to One Side

If your Subaru vehicle pulls to one side when you apply the brakes, this may indicate that the brake pads or brake calipers are wearing unevenly. This problem can also be a result of a stuck brake caliper or a malfunctioning brake line, which restricts brake fluid from flowing properly to one or more wheels.

A car that pulls to one side while braking can increase the risk of losing control of the vehicle, especially in emergency braking situations.

Increased Stopping Distance

Another symptom of broken Subaru brakes is an increase in stopping distance. If you notice that your Subaru takes longer to come to a complete stop than usual, it could be a sign that the brake pads have lost their ability to grip the brake rotor effectively.

This issue can occur as a result of worn brake pads or low brake fluid. Delayed braking response can compromise your ability to avoid collisions, so it is important to get your brakes checked right away if you experience this symptom.

Brake Warning Light

Many modern Subaru vehicles are equipped with a brake warning light on the dashboard. If this light comes on, it often indicates a problem with the brake system, such as low brake fluid levels or worn brake pads or rotors.

Ignoring this warning can lead to more serious damage and compromise your safety. If the light appears, it's best to bring your vehicle to a Subaru service center for a professional inspection.

Recognizing early signs of brake issues, such as unusual noises, vibrations, soft brake pedals, pulling to one side, or longer stopping distances, can help prevent more expensive repairs. If any of these symptoms occur, have your brake system checked and serviced by a qualified technician.