August is Brake Safety Awareness Month, and the Car Care Council is reminding all vehicle owners to make sure their brakes are in good working condition and receive annual inspections.

A brake inspection should include brake lining wear, brake fluid level, rotor thickness, condition of hoses and brake lines, and brake and dash warning lights, the Car Care Council said. A test drive can also help detect other brake system problems.

According to the council, warning signs that drivers should look for include: 

• Your vehicle pulling to the left or right

• Hearing odd noises when you apply the brakes

• An illuminated brake warning light

• Brake grabbing

• Low pedal feel

• Vibration

• Hard pedal feel

• Squealing.

“A properly operating brake system helps ensure safe vehicle operation and control under a variety of driving conditions,” said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. “Motorists can put a stop to any potential brake system problems by recognizing the signs and symptoms that their brake system may need maintenance or repair.”

For more information about the nonprofit Car Care Council, click here.