If you’re burying your head in the sand about strange noises coming from your brakes, it’s time to face reality. Your brakes are on the verge of failure or are already failing. Drive Zimbabwe Roadside Assistance warns that ignoring a small braking issue is not only dangerous but also more expensive to fix the longer you leave it.
“Brakes give you warnings. Unlike a fan belt that just snaps or a battery that just dies, brakes almost always tell you they’re unhappy long before they fail. They squeal, grind, shudder and ‘feel funny’. Do them a favour and listen.
“Any change in pedal feel – specifically spongy, soft, or a pedal that sinks to the floor needs urgent attention. This is, in my opinion, the most dangerous warning sign of all. A grinding brake will still stop you (horribly, but it will stop). A spongy pedal is a sign of impending total failure.
“As we covered in Part 1, your brakes work on hydraulic pressure (pushing a liquid). A soft, spongy pedal means there is air in the brake lines. This could be from old, boiled fluid (that’s turned to steam) or a fluid leak somewhere in the system. “Air compresses; liquid doesn’t. When you push the brake pedal, you’re just squishing a bubble of air instead of pushing the brake pads against the disc. One more hard stop or one more bubble, and that pedal will go straight to the floor with zero stopping power.
“This is a sign to drive slowly to a fitment centre NOW – not later!” Tom warns ignorance is (financial) doom when it comes to brakes.
Here are some dreaded scenarios when ignorance is bliss …
• You hear squealing (wear indicator): You need new brake pads – however, delaying could double or even quadruple your expenses if other components become damaged.
• You ignore grinding noises (metal on metal): You’ve now destroyed your brake rotors and will be facing costs that could be 100% to 300% higher than just changing the pads alone.
• You keep ignoring the noises: The extreme heat from the grinding metal can damage the brake caliper. You might also panic-stop, warp the new components or worse, have an accident. Continued neglect can even risk severe damage or accidents, with costs rising many times over or resulting in a total write-off.
What your brakes are really trying to tell you:
• Squealing is usually the first warning. It’s a high-pitched, metallic “squeeeee” that often happens when you first apply the brakes. This is the wear indicator – a tiny piece of metal designed to screech against the rotor when your brake pads are getting thin. This is your brakes begging for some TLC.
• Grinding is the sound of metal-on-metal – your brake pads are completely gone! The metal backing plate of the pad is now grinding directly against your metal brake rotor. This is your car screaming, “Stop! You are destroying me and your ability to brake”.
• Shaking (shuddering) is a vibration you feel through the steering wheel or the brake pedal. It means your brake rotors are no longer flat; they are warped, usually from being overheated. Because the surface is uneven, the pads “grab and slip” rapidly, causing that judder. It’s your car saying, “I’m compromised! I can’t provide smooth, predictable stopping power anymore”.
If you experience any of these, get your brakes checked immediately. “The festive season is around the corner, so there’s no time to waste in getting your vehicle holiday-ready ready too,” TOM says. “Ensure your brakes won’t let you down by having them thoroughly assessed for a long trip at an accredited fitment centre – especially if you’ve heard unusual noises.
“If your vehicle has ABS, ensure it is functioning correctly, as it helps maintain control during sudden stops. Also, check the handbrake to prevent unexpected rolling when parked on inclines. “For total peace of mind, other pre-holiday checks must include the battery, tyres, windscreen wipers, all fluids, windscreen chips or cracks and all lights. Pack an emergency kit that includes items like a first aid kit, torch, extra batteries, water, non-perishable snacks and basic tools. Having an emergency kit can help you handle unexpected situations and keep you safe until help arrives.”
Drive Zimbabwe Roadside Assistance: Reliable Support, Tailored to You.
Enjoy peace of mind on Zimbabwe’s roads with Drive Zimbabwe Roadside Assistance (DZRA) — your trusted partner for comprehensive emergency support. With seven flexible membership packages, there’s a plan for every lifestyle, budget, and need. facebook.com/105600827733427
Why Choose DZRA
- Competitive pricing without compromising quality
- Tailored packages for different needs
- Simple, stress-free service that saves time and money
DZRA is more than just breakdown cover — it’s a reliable, affordable partner dedicated to getting you back on the road quickly and safely.
Exclusive Member Benefits.
Breakdowns can happen anytime — even with well-maintained vehicles. Whether you’re navigating potholes, heavy traffic, or long-distance trips, DZRA ensures you’re never stranded. Members enjoy exclusive benefits, discounts, and peace of mind every day.
Our Most Popular Packages.
Drive Business Breakdown Cover
Protect your business fleet with vehicle-level cover. Any driver of your company vehicle is protected, minimising downtime and safeguarding your brand.
Drive Standard.
- Includes roadside and home rescue.
- Services include:
- On-the-spot repairs (where possible)
- Vehicle jumpstart
- Flat tyre change (must have a spare)
- Retrieval of locked-in keys
- 4 call-outs per year
- 50 km radius
Drive Advance
- Enhanced garage support with towing assistance.
- Services include:
- Contacting up to 4 garages for the quickest repair
- Providing a repair estimate
- Explaining options clearly
- Ensuring no work starts without your approval
- 5 call-outs per year
- 120 km radius
- Towing, roadside, and home rescue
- Vehicle jumpstart
- Flat tyre change (must have a spare)
Drive Ultimate
- Full-service garage support from scene to workshop.
- Services include:
- Staying with your vehicle until it’s loaded
- Towing to your preferred garage
- Coordinating communication with the garage
- Guaranteeing no repairs without your consent
- 6 call-outs per year
- 240 km radius
- Long-distance recovery
- Vehicle jumpstart
- Flat tyre change (must have a spare)
Drive Accident Assist Cover.
- Complimentary 24/7 accident claims support for all members.
Drive Family Breakdown Cover
Covers up to 5 family members at the same address — whether they’re driving or passengers.
Services include:
- Towing, roadside, and home rescue
- Vehicle jumpstart
- 2 call-outs per year
- Retrieval of locked-in keys
- 30 km radius
Drive Senior Plus
For members aged 65+. Special roadside and claims support tailored to your golden years.
Services include:
- Free basic car inspection
- Towing, roadside, and home rescue
- Flat battery and tyre change
- Drive Zim road reports
- 1 call-out per year
- 20 km radius
- Retrieval of locked-in keys
Towing & Recovery — Fair, Transparent Pricing
Our towing fees depend on your location, time of day, and tow type — always quoted upfront with honesty. Breakdowns are stressful, but with DZRA, help is just a call away. Fast, reliable, and professional — we’re here to ensure you always have someone to call and that you get home safely.
📞 Call or WhatsApp: 0780 579 261 / 0718 084 297 / 0736 523 424 ☎️ Office Line: 0242 339718
📧 Email: info@drivezim.co.zw. Join today — and drive with confidence. Drive Zimbabwe Roadside Assistance — Anywhere. Anyplace. Anytime.