Signs Your Brake Pads Need To Be Replaced

Every vehicle consists of several components that ensure smooth running but brakes are one of the most crucial parts. It is the brakes of a car that ensures safety while on the road. Considering the important function they play, it is important to keep inspecting and maintaining your car’s brakes. Ignoring brakes could have disastrous consequences. But how can you find out when it’s time to get new brakes? Typically, an average car would need brakes to be replaced at least twice throughout its lifetime. However, the need for brake replacement largely depends on your driving style and conditions. Some experts recommend brake pads replacement after every 25,000 to 65,000 miles. Also, the brake rotors need replacement after 30,000 to 70,000 miles. Often car owners forget to keep a track of these numbers but noticing a few signs can help in identifying when it’s time to get new brakes. A careful inspection can reveal if your brake pads have reached the end of their life.

Changing brakes isn’t the same as changing oils or tune-ups. Brakes can wear down due to several reasons and you need to be watchful to prevent a serious accident. When it comes to brakes, you need to keep your ears and eyes open to identify some crucial signs. Timely repair and replacement ensure that your brakes are in good working order all the time. With that in mind, let’s find out some common signs that indicate it’s time to get new brakes for your car.

Squeaking, Grinding, or Clicking Sound

When it comes to brakes, you need to be careful about the odd sounds and unusual noises. When brake pads are near the end of their useful life, they start making a squealing or squeaking sound. This type of sound indicates that your pads have excessively worn down. This will lead to a grinding noise which further means that rotors have been damaged. So, if you hear grinding noise when pressing the brake pedal, make sure to replace the brake pads. Avoiding this sound can result in severe damage and costly repairs. Sometimes, you hear a clicking sound when the brake pedal is pushed or released due to damaged or loosened clips and bolts that hold the brake pad.

Vibration When Pressing Brakes

If you notice a vibration when applying brakes, it’s another sign that you need the assistance of a professional. Vibration can be a result of warped rotors or uneven brake pads. Some type of binding resin is used to hold brake pads together. When the brake pads get damaged or worn out, this adhesive material gets smeared across the rotor. Avoiding this issue could lead to further damage and even a potential accident. So, make sure to get the brakes checked and replaced if needed.

Brake Pads Become Thin

It is also important to periodically inspect your brake pads to identify the signs of wear and tear. To locate the brake pad, look between the spokes of your wheels. To ensure the safety of your vehicle, the brake pads should not be less than a ¼ inch or 6.4 mm thick.  If pads become thin, it’s time to get a set of new brake pads.

Taking Longer To Stop

If your car is taking longer than usual to stop, then get your brakes checked as soon as possible.  Slow working brake problem is known as “brake fade” which makes it longer than usual time to stop the car. This problem is a result of worn-down brake pads or low/leaking brake fluid. This issue can also happen if you frequently drive on the hills. Besides this, if the brake pad indicator light is on, get the brakes checked.