Identifying problems

If your brake pedal feels soft or 'spongy' stop as soon as it is safe to do so and get a breakdown mechanic to check the car. If the pedal feels soft, you might be able to build up brake pressure by repeatedly pumping it,however, this is only to stop the car... and is not a 'get you home' solution.

A shuddering sensation or grinding noise when you apply the brakes means that your brake pads may be excessively worn.

If you need to stop suddenly use the handbrake in an on-off pumping motion. If there's time, change to second gear and bring the clutch up gently (the engine compression will make the clutch feel like a brake) then use the handbrake to stop.

You must have a straight run of space in which to stop; this is because your power steering will fail as soon as the engine is switched off - it may be almost impossible to turn the wheel.

A second danger is that the steering lock could engage; in some models this can happen even if the key is still in the ignition switch.

It is reassuring to note that most late model cars have 'dual circuit' brakes which will still work on at least two wheels in the event of system failure.

Brake fade refers to a situation where the brakes lose efficiency (or possibly fail completely). It is extremely rare in modern, well maintained vehicles.

There are two causes of brake fade. The most common is caused by overheated brake pads. This is almost unheard of with modern brake technology - you would need to brake long and hard down a (very, very) long hill. When the brakes cool down they work OK again.

The second cause is water in the brake fluid. When the fluid gets hot the water can vaporise. Steam (unlike brake fluid) will compress - therefore instead of your braking effort being transmitted to the wheels, it is dissipated as the steam compresses. When the system cools down the brakes will seem OK again. If your car is regularly serviced, the brake fluid will be replaced periodically and this problem should not occur.

If your handbrake fails, leave the car in first or reverse gear (or Park) when you park and chock your front wheels against the kerb. It is not wise to leave your car on a hill, even with the wheels chocked.

There are two checks that you can make. Static and rolling.

The static brake test involves pressing the brake pedal when you get into the car. There should be resistance from the pedal; if there isn't you have probably got a fluid leak and should not drive the car.

The rolling brake test is done by pressing the brake pedal gently as soon as possible after moving off and while driving slowly. This will reassure you that your brakes are OK before you need them.

However, it’s always better to have your brakes checked by an expert. At National our highly qualified technicians can perform a visual examination of the pads, discs, hoses, pipes and callipers to ensure there are no obvious defects.

Please note that for an in-depth check including shoes, drums, cylinders and brake fluid, an additional charge will be made for this service due to the additional time involved. This charge will be agreed with you in advance of the work being carried out.