Tune up, the basics
Check your brake fluid levels when your brake light goes on; that usually means that your brake fluid is low and your brakes need to be inspected by a certified technician. Seeing or smelling brake fluid indicates the presence of a leak that should be checked immediately. A vibrating wheel or brake pedal usually points to rotor surface issues and brakes that continue to squeal after you release the brake pedal means that the wear indicators are scraping against the rotors. The grinding or growling sounds that metal on metal makes is a clear signal that your brake pads have completely worn away. Experts strongly recommend that you have your brakes checked as soon as you sense that something is amiss.