5 Signs Your Subaru Needs Brake Repair Before Your Next Road Trip
May 28 2025 - Lynnes Subaru

Spring and summer road trips are some of the best ways to experience New Jersey and beyond—whether you're heading down the shore, up to the Catskills, or just out for a weekend escape. But before you pack your bags and cue up your favorite playlist, there’s one thing you can’t afford to overlook: your Subaru’s brakes.

At Lynnes Subaru in Bloomfield, we’ve seen it all. Drivers from Montclair, Newark, Clifton, and Passaic often come in with subtle signs of brake wear that, if left unchecked, could compromise safety and performance. Our certified Subaru technicians specialize in diagnosing and repairing brake issues across all Subaru models—including the Forester, Outback, Legacy, Crosstrek, Impreza, and Ascent.

So how do you know if your brakes need some attention? Here are five common signs:

  1. 1. Squealing or Grinding Noises
  2. If you hear a high-pitched squeal when braking, that’s often the wear indicator on your brake pads doing its job. Grinding sounds? That could mean your pads are worn completely and metal is contacting metal—definitely time to come see us.
  3. 2. A Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal
  4. When your brake pedal feels softer than normal or sinks to the floor when pressed, that may indicate air in the brake lines or a problem with the master cylinder. Both require immediate attention.
  5. 3. Vibrations or Shaking When Braking
  6. If your steering wheel or brake pedal vibrates during braking, it could be a sign of warped rotors. This tends to happen when brake components overheat, often from aggressive driving or frequent stops in traffic.
  7. 4. Increased Stopping Distance
  8. When your Subaru doesn’t stop as quickly as it used to, it’s not just annoying—it’s dangerous. Whether it’s worn pads or low brake fluid, increased stopping distance should always be addressed.
  9. 5. Brake Warning Light

If you see the brake light on your dashboard (usually a red or amber circle with an exclamation point or the word “BRAKE”), don’t ignore it. It’s your vehicle’s way of alerting you to a potential issue with the braking system.

 

Why Choose Lynnes Subaru for Brake Repair?

Our Subaru-certified service team uses genuine Subaru brake parts and precision diagnostics to assess your system thoroughly. We check the pads, rotors, calipers, brake fluid, and hydraulic lines. And because we know each Subaru model inside and out, we tailor our service based on your specific vehicle’s requirements—whether it’s a Subaru WRX with performance brakes or a Subaru Ascent designed to carry the whole family.

Worried about wait times or pricing? We offer convenient online scheduling, transparent repair estimates, and rotating service specials to help you save. Our service center is equipped to handle everything from simple pad replacements to complete brake system overhauls.

 

Hit the Road with Confidence

Whether you're heading out on a road trip, commuting through Newark traffic, or navigating the scenic streets of Montclair, your brakes are the last thing you want to leave to chance.

Schedule your Subaru brake inspection at Lynnes Subaru in Bloomfield today. We’ll help you stop smoothly, safely, and confidently—no matter where the season takes you.