Garage Sevices
Is Brake Disc Pitting Dangerous? Understanding Braking Failures, Judder, and Solutions
Brakes are critically important for both safety and performance, yet many drivers are not clear about how to keep them in good shape or what signs to lookout for.
Key signs of brake issues
There are a number of signs that your brakes may be faulty or may need replacing.
Squealing/grinding brakes
If you hear squealing or grinding when applying your brakes, it's likely that there is an issue with your brake pads or brake discs (pads may have worn away, or the discs may be pitted).
Car pulling to one side
If your car pulls to one side, or shakes when you are braking, it may be that your brake pads are unevenly worn, generally worn-out, or there could be a brake fluid leak.
Juddering brake pedal
If when you apply your brakes you feel a juddering sensation from the brake pedal, there could well be an issue with your brake pads or discs (or the brake disc isn't fitted correctly). Is brake judder dangerous? It is more of a warning sign than an immediate problem but it is likely to point to some underlying issues.
Spongy brakes
If you notice that your brakes feel 'spongy', or that the brake pedal feels different when you push down, this could be a sign that there's an issue with the brake fluid (i.e. a leak or insufficient fluid).
A loud screeching sound (metal on metal)
This highly-noticeable and worrying noise can be caused by scoring on brake disc surfaces. This is where there are lines that run around the circumference of the surface of the discs. These tend to be caused by abrasion. Although not always serious, you should keep an eye on this and get it addressed by a professional if it becomes noticeably worse.
What is brake disc pitting and is it dangerous?
Pitted brake discs essentially means that the brake discs themselves have small indentations or grooves on them. You may be able to see these easily, or you may notice a decrease in braking power/increase in braking distance and a noise when you brake. Both are key signs that there may be an issue. The key causes of pitted brake discs are corrosion from exposure to moisture, excessive heat, and general wear and tear.
How to look after your brakes
There are a few things you can do to keep your brakes in good working order and ensure they last longer.
Adjust your driving style
Constantly braking and accelerating can result in brake pads wearing out faster than usual. Smoother braking/accelerating will help them last longer.
Regular maintenance
Regular inspection and maintenance of your brakes can increase their lifespan. It also allows you to spot and address any minor issues before they become serious. As part of this, you should get your car serviced at least annually, and change your brake fluid at least every two years.
Don't keep the car unused
Ideally, you shouldn't leave your car unused for too long. A 20-30 minute trip at least once a week will help the brakes and other components.
Avoid adverse weather conditions
Where possible, try and avoid driving in extreme weather conditions. This is because the brake discs may corrode if exposed to adverse conditions such as snow or heavy rain.
Protyre - tyre experts
Protyre are one of the UK's largest online tyre retailers, with a network of more than 184 garages.
We offer premium tyres from brands such as Pirelli, Goodyear, Michelin, and Bridgestone; economy options from the likes of Budget, and Ovation; and a range of mid-price options from brands including Falken, GT Radial, and Sumitomo. Many of these are available in summer, winter, XL, and all-season varieties (see our tyre page for more).
Frequently Asked Questions
Brake disc pitting occurs for a number of reasons, mostly related to moisture, and means that the brake discs themselves have small indentations ('pits') on them. You may be able to see these yourself - or they may be spotted by a mechanic at your MOT or service.
Braking failure can be extremely serious and can cause accidents. The key causes of brake failure are mechanical (worn-out brake pads, damaged callipers, worn discs), hydraulic (brake fluid issues), and driver error (incorrect braking technique or poor maintenance).
Although dependent on how the car is used and other factors, brake pads will generally need replacing somewhere between 25,000 to 60,000 miles. Brakes on EVs and hybrids can last considerably longer.
