Brake pads play a vital role in the safety of your vehicle, acting as a critical component in braking power and overall brake performance. Over time, friction causes brake pads to wear down, and if they aren’t replaced in a timely manner, they can compromise both your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Ignoring the warning signs of brake pad wear can lead to dangerous driving situations, including longer stopping distances and potential brake system failure. Additionally, worn brake pads can damage other critical components in the braking system, requiring costly repairs.
Signs of Damaged or Worn Brake Pads
Here we are telling you about 10 such signs, which indicate that your vehicle needs to replace the brake pads immediately.
#1. Squeaking Sound While Braking
If there is a loud squealing or crackling sound while braking in your vehicle, it may be a sign that the brake pads are worn out. Because the metal of the excessively worn brake pad makes noise by rubbing against the brake rotor. This problem does not occur with new brake pads. However, sometimes this noise can also be caused by rust or other debris between the brake pad and the rotor. But when this happens, this noise stops after the vehicle has driven for some distance.
#2. Vibration While Braking
If vibration is felt in the steering wheel or pedal of the vehicle when the brake is pressed, it is a sign that the brake pads are unevenly worn and need to be replaced. Because worn brake pads do not stick to the rotor properly, leading to lack of proper grip, you will feel vibration while braking. Therefore, if there is vibration while braking, you should immediately replace the brake pads of your vehicle.
#3. Difficulty in Braking
If you have to apply extra pressure to brake or the brake pedal is going down lower than normal, it means that the brake pads are worn out and should be replaced. Because worn brake pads do not grip the brake rotor with full grip, due to which you have to apply extra pressure on the brake pedal to stop your vehicle.
#4. Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal
When you press the brake pedal and it feels softer than normal, it may be a sign that the brake pads are worn out or there is a problem with the brake fluid. Therefore, whenever you feel softness in the brake pedal while braking, you should check the brake pads, brake fluid level and leakage.
#5. Reduced Thickness
It is important to check the thickness of the brake pads from time to time. This is because it is normal for brake pads to wear out over time. So if your vehicle’s brake pads are 3 millimeters or less thick, they need to be replaced immediately. If you are uncomfortable or inexperienced in checking it, it is a good idea to get it checked by a professional mechanic.
#6. Vehicle Pulling To One Side While Braking
Sometimes due to some reason, the brake pads of the vehicle start wearing unevenly, due to which the pad on one side starts getting more grip and when braking, your vehicle starts pulling to one side, then this can be a sign of uneven brake pad or caliper problem. In this case, it is necessary to replace the brake pads. However, this problem can also be due to fluid leakage from either side.
#7. Metal to Metal Noise
If there is a sound of metal rubbing against metal when braking, then this is a very serious situation. This means that the brake pads are completely worn out and the brake rotor is being damaged. If you hear such a sound, you should immediately get the brake pads replaced by a professional. Because excessive wear of the brake pads can damage other components of the brake system.
#8. Brake Pedal Sinking
If the brake pedal is not working properly even when fully pressed, it can be a sign of bad brake pads or other problems in the brake system. Because this happens when your vehicle’s brake pads are excessively worn or the brake fluid level is low or there is a brake fluid leak. However, it can also be caused by a faulty brake master cylinder. Therefore, it should be thoroughly checked to find out the exact problem.
#9. Check Brakes Warning Light
Many modern vehicles have a ‘Check Brakes’ warning light. If this light comes on, it may mean that the condition of the brake pads is not good. But there can also be many other reasons for the display of “Check Brakes”, and proper diagnosis is a better option. If you are inexperienced in checking it, you should seek the help of a professional mechanic.
#10. Brakes Take Too Long
If you are taking too long to brake or there is a delay in slowing down the vehicle, it could be a sign that the brake pads have lost their effectiveness and it is time to replace them. However, the same situation could also be caused by a small leak of brake fluid. So if you feel that braking is taking time, you should check the brake pads, fluid leakage or level.
When Should You Replace Brake Pads?
Generally, pads last from 45,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and habits. It is recommended by vehicle manufacturers and expert mechanics that brake pads be checked regularly, especially when you schedule tire rotations or oil changes.
Also, if you notice any signs such as squeaking or grinding noises, vibrations when braking, difficulty braking, spongy or soft pedal, reduced tread thickness or brake warning lights, don’t wait – replace the pads immediately. Because timely replacement can help you avoid costly rotor or caliper repairs.
Factors Affecting Brake Pad Replacement Cost
Several factors can affect the cost of brake pad replacement, such as:
#1. Vehicle Make and Model
- High-performance cars: Brands such as luxury or sports cars typically have more expensive brake components due to special materials and designs.
- General vehicles: For everyday vehicles, brake pad replacement is generally less expensive.
#2. Types of Brake Pads
- Ceramic brake pads: Longer-lasting and quieter performance, but come at a higher price.
- Semi-metallic pads: More affordable, but make more noise and wear down the rotor more quickly.
- Organic brake pads: The least expensive, but wear out quickly, so they need to be replaced more often.
#3. Mechanic Labor Cost
- Mechanic Rates: Labor charges vary by location and shop. Labor costs are generally higher in urban areas than in rural areas.
- DIY vs. professional service: Doing the job yourself can save labor, but it requires time and tools.
#4. Where To Buy Brake Pads
- Online Retailers: Sites like Amazon, AutoZone and RockAuto offer a wide range of brake pads at varying prices. Buying online can often save money compared to a local store.
- Local Auto Parts Stores: Places like O’Reilly Auto Parts and Napa Auto Parts offer convenience, but prices can be high.
- Dealerships: For OEM parts, dealerships are the most expensive option, but ensure you get parts designed specifically for your vehicle.
Conclusion
Proper care of your vehicle’s brake system is extremely important for the safety of you and your family. So regular brake checks, monitoring the condition of brake pads and replacing brake fluid on time helps maintain the braking ability of your vehicle.
If you face any brake-related problems, such as brake knocking, low or high pedal pressure or poor brake performance, contact a qualified mechanic immediately.
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