How To Fix Broken Kia Brakes

Brakes are one of the most important safety features in your Kia, and when they're not working properly, it can put you and others at risk. Broken brakes can range from simple issues like worn brake pads to more complex problems that require professional repairs. At Mana Kia, we understand the importance of maintaining your Kia's braking system, and we're here to guide you through common brake issues and how to fix them.

Signs of Broken Brakes

Before diving into how to fix broken brakes, it's important to know the signs that indicate your Kia's braking system needs attention. Ignoring these symptoms could lead to further damage and potential safety hazards. Some common warning signs of brake issues include:

Squeaking or Squealing Noises

If you hear high-pitched squeaking or squealing noises when you apply the brakes, it’s often a sign that your brake pads are worn down. The squeal is caused by the wear indicators, which are designed to alert you that it’s time to replace the pads. If the sound turns into grinding, the issue could be more severe, such as worn-out rotors.

Grinding Sounds

Grinding sounds when you press on the brake pedal indicate that the brake pads are completely worn, and metal is making contact with metal. This can cause significant damage to your brake rotors, so it’s essential to address this problem immediately.

Pulling to One Side

If your Kia pulls to one side when you apply the brakes, it could mean that one of the brake calipers is sticking, or that the brake pads are unevenly worn. This can also occur if there is an issue with your car’s brake fluid or brake lines.

Vibration or Pulsation

When applying the brakes, if you feel vibration or pulsing in the brake pedal, it’s often a sign that your rotors are warped. This can happen from overheating or excessive wear and needs to be addressed to restore smooth braking.

Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal

If the brake pedal feels soft or spongy when you press it, this may indicate air in the brake lines, a brake fluid leak, or worn brake components. It’s important to resolve this issue quickly, as it can drastically affect braking performance.

How To Fix Common Kia Brake Problems

Now that you know the signs of broken brakes, let’s go over the steps to fix some of the most common issues. While some brake problems can be fixed with DIY methods, others will require professional help to ensure your safety on the road.
1. Replacing Worn Brake Pads
Worn brake pads are one of the most common brake problems. Over time, the friction material on your brake pads wears down, reducing their ability to stop your vehicle effectively. If you're comfortable working on your vehicle, replacing the brake pads yourself can save you money.

Step 1: Lift the Car Use a jack to lift the car and secure it with jack stands. Remove the wheels to access the brakes.
Step 2: Remove the Old Brake Pads Depending on your Kia model, you may need to remove the caliper bolts to release the brake pads. Slide out the old pads and inspect the condition of the brake rotors.
Step 3: Install New Brake Pads Place the new brake pads in the caliper bracket. Ensure they are correctly aligned and secure them with the appropriate bolts.
Step 4: Reassemble and Test Once the pads are replaced, reassemble the brake caliper and wheel, and lower the vehicle. Test the brakes to ensure they’re functioning properly.

If the rotors are damaged or excessively worn, you may also need to replace or resurface them.
2. Fixing Grinding or Warped Rotors
If you hear grinding or notice vibration in the brake pedal, the rotors may be warped or damaged. This often happens from overheating due to excessive braking, such as when driving downhill or heavy braking. Depending on the severity of the damage, you can either replace or resurface the rotors.

Step 1: Remove the Brake Caliper To access the rotor, remove the brake caliper by loosening the bolts. Once the caliper is removed, hang it safely without stressing the brake lines.
Step 2: Remove the Rotor Remove any retaining screws that are holding the rotor in place. Slide the rotor off the hub.
Step 3: Resurface or Replace the Rotor If the rotor is slightly warped, you can have it resurfaced at an auto shop. If it's severely damaged, you’ll need to replace it. Make sure to check the thickness of the new rotors to ensure they meet factory specifications.
Step 4: Reassemble the Brakes Once the rotor is replaced or resurfaced, reassemble the brake components and reinstall the wheel. Test the brakes to ensure smooth operation.

3. Air in the Brake Lines
If your brake pedal feels soft or spongy, there could be air in the brake lines. This can happen if you’ve had recent brake work done or if there’s a leak in the brake system. To fix this, you’ll need to "bleed" the brake lines to remove the air.

Step 1: Lift the Vehicle Use a jack and jack stands to lift the vehicle and secure it.
Step 2: Locate the Bleeder Valves On each brake caliper, you will find a small bleeder valve. This is where you will connect a brake bleeder tool or hose.
Step 3: Bleed the Brakes With an assistant pressing the brake pedal, open the bleeder valve to allow air and fluid to escape. Close the valve before your assistant releases the brake pedal. Repeat this process until clean brake fluid flows out without air bubbles.
Step 4: Top Off Brake Fluid Check the brake fluid reservoir and top it off with the recommended brake fluid to ensure proper braking performance.

4. Sticking Calipers
If your Kia pulls to one side when braking, you may have a sticking brake caliper. This is caused by corrosion, dirt, or lack of lubrication in the caliper's components.

Step 1: Remove the Caliper Loosen the bolts securing the caliper and remove it from the rotor.
Step 2: Inspect the Caliper Inspect the caliper for any signs of corrosion, dirt, or damage. If it's stuck, gently clean and lubricate the piston with brake lubricant.
Step 3: Reinstall and Test After cleaning and lubricating the caliper, reinstall it and test the brakes. If the problem persists, the caliper may need to be replaced.

When to Seek Professional Help

While some brake issues can be fixed at home, others require the expertise of a professional mechanic. If you’re not comfortable with brake repairs or the issue persists after your attempts to fix it, it’s important to visit a professional service center. At Mana Kia, our team of trained technicians can inspect your braking system and make sure everything is functioning properly to keep you safe on the road.
Regular brake maintenance is crucial to your Kia's safety and longevity. If you’re unsure about your brake system’s condition, or if you need help with repairs, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for professional advice and service.