Brake pads are crucial for your vehicle’s braking system. So, you must keep them in good working condition to keep your safety and the safety of other drivers around you. We created this article to help you identify the 7 warning signs of when to change brake pads.
Worn brake pads are part of the normal wear and tear of your vehicle. So, it would be best if you keep on top of the brake pads maintenance. As a result, you’ll never have to worry about a brake failure.
Car owners can avoid many fender benders when the brakes are in good shape. It’s as simple as that.
7 Warning Signs of When to Change Brake Pads
- Squealing coming from brakes
- Grinding sound when braking
- Brake pedal vibrates when pressed
- Car takes longer to stop
- Car pulling to one side
- Brake pad indicator light comes on
- Less than a quarter inch of brake pad
7 Warning Signs of When to Change Brake Pads
On average brake pads should be replaced every 40,000 to 50,000 miles. But that number can differ depending on driving conditions and driving styles.
But since it’s hard to pinpoint an exact number, what we’ll tell you are some symptoms that you have worn brake pads.
Squealing Coming from Brakes
When your brake pads are worn, you’ll begin to hear a squealing noise coming from the brakes. You must replace your brake pads before they do serious damage to the rotors, which will elevate the cost of repair.
Grinding Sound When Braking
The grinding sound is a more serious problem.
Brake pads are composed of steel backing plates with friction material bound to the surface that faces the disc brake rotor.
So, when you hear a deep metallic grinding that means that bare metal plates are beginning to friction the disc brake rotor.
When you hear a metallic grinding sound means that it’s time to replace your brake pads.
Brake Pedal Vibrates When Pressed
Another warning sign of when to change brake pads pedal vibration.
If the brake pedal vibrates when you apply the brakes, it means your brake pads have worn out. So, in order to avoid any further damage to your car or a potential collision, it’s important to call a professional to check your vehicle’s braking system.
Car Takes Longer to Stop
This is the most obvious sign that brake pad wear is gone beyond the limit.
If you’re experiencing less than ideal reduction of speed every time you apply the brakes, it means that your brake pads are worn out completely or that your brake fluid is low. So, we advise you to visually inspect the braking system to be certain. Also, you should take your car to your mechanic as soon as possible before you lose all braking abilities.
Car Pulling to One Side
If your car pulls to one side when you brake, it means brake pads on one side got thinner at a faster rate than their counterparts.
So, that’s why when you apply the brakes, you’ll feel that the car may pull slightly to the left or right.
You should never leave this problem unsolved once you notice it. By no fixing this problem, you’ll put unnecessary stress to your steering system and vehicle’s ball joints. But you shouldn’t risk anything. What you need to do is to have a mechanic checking your brakes to avoid further damage.
Brake Pad Indicator Light Comes On
Most modern vehicles have a brake warning system that appear on your car’s dashboard.
Make sure to check your owner’s manual to see if your vehicle comes equipped with the low-pad warning system.
Keep in mind that if the light does come on, you’ll need to have your mechanic replace your brake pads.
It’s important to mention that most sensors have the same lifespan as the brake pad. In other words, you’ll have to replace the wear sensors along with the brake pads.
In case your car doesn’t have wear sensors, you need to visually inspect your braking system. We recommend checking your brakes every 10,000 miles. For checking your brakes the old-fashioned way, you’ll need to remove the wheels.
Less Than a Quarter Inch of Brake Pad
How do you know your brakes are worn out? Well, you can visually inspect your brake pads on the brake discs. That’s right. You’ll have to remove the wheels to know if it’s time to replace your brakes.
How thin can go your brake pads? Well, that’s a nice question.
If the friction material on your brake pads is less than ¼ inch thick, consider getting a new set of brake pads.
How Can You Make Brakes Last Longer?
Many factors influence the lifespan of your braking system, such as:
- Driving style: The driving style is the most influential factor for the lifespan of your braking system. If you usually brake hard, your brakes will need replacing sooner than those of someone who gently brakes.
- Rotate your tires every 6 months: A good way to prolong the life of your brakes is to have your tires rotated every 6 months. Rotation changes the way that your tires make contact with your brakes; thus, increasing the lifespan of your brake pads.
- Brake quality: If you buy high-quality brake pads, they will last longer than others.
- City traffic roads: City traffic roads will require more braking than long, straight highways.
Are You Experiencing Brake Issues? Fix Them ASAP
It’s crucial to know when to change brake pads. First, you will guarantee your safety and the safety of other drivers. Also, you’ll prevent further and expensive damage to your vehicle. So if you’re experiencing any of the above warning signs, call your favorite brake tech to provide a diagnosis, top-rated, affordable brake replacement services.
Thanks for reading. Drive safely and have a great day!