How often should I change my brake pads?
Brakes are one of the most important systems in your car, responsible for preventing you and your next accident. If your brake pads aren’t working properly, you might not be able to stop your car before hitting an object in front of you. That’s why it’s important to know the signs that indicate it’s time to change your brake pads.
From strange noises to abnormal vibrations, your brake pads will let you know when it’s time to change them; you just need to pay attention. We’ll discuss the top 5 signs that will help you recognize when it’s time to change your brake pads and tell you how often you should install new brake pads.
How often should I change my brake pads? Most manufacturers recommend changing your brake pads every 40,000 to 50,000 miles. However, if you notice any of the signs described below, you should change your brake pads immediately. Brake pads that are too thin can cause costly problems, such as: B.
Replacing the brake discs. Additionally, your driving style and the type of brakes you buy will affect how often you need to replace your brakes. For example, if you spend a lot of time in traffic jams, you will likely need to replace your brake pads more frequently than a driver who commutes daily on the highway. In addition, bipedal riders tend to brake more frequently than necessary, which will lead to more frequent brake pad replacements.
5 Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Brake Pads
Here are the main signs that it’s time to replace your brake pads:
>> Strange noises when braking
>> Vibrations when braking
>> Increased braking stop time
>> Brake pad warning light
>> Thin brake pads
Here is a detailed list of signs that it’s time to replace your brake pads:
1. Strange noises
The most obvious symptom that your brake pads are deteriorating is strange noises when braking. In most cases, you will first hear a squealing or grinding noise. This noise indicates worn brake pads, but it can also be caused by moisture. If the noise stops after braking a few times, there is no need to worry.
Otherwise, you should have your brakes inspected immediately, even before you hear the brakes squeal. If your brake pads are worn excessively, the metal wear indicators will start to make a loud squealing noise. This noise can also be caused by the brake pads rubbing against the metal of the rotors.
If you don’t replace your brake pads beforehand, you should prepare yourself for a more expensive repair. At this point, you’ll likely need to replace your brake rotors as well.
2. Vibration
When you press the brake pedal on your car, it should operate smoothly and stop without any issues. However, as your brake pads wear out, you may experience vibrations in your brake pedal.
The vibrations may become so strong that you may even feel them through your steering wheel. At this point your brake discs may be warped and will need to be replaced as well.
3. Increased braking time
You expect your brakes to operate smoothly when you press the pedal, but worn brake pads can cause them to function less well. If you notice a loss of power, it’s time to check your brake pads.
In most cases, simply installing new brake pads will be enough. However, it could also be that there is a lack of brake fluid due to a leak in the system.
4. Brake Pad Warning Light
Newer vehicles have advanced warning features for nearly every system, including the brakes. If your car is equipped with a brake pad warning light, it may come on if the pad material is too thin.
The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) light is also located on the dashboard, but it does not indicate the condition of the brake pads.
5. Thin Brake Pads
If you have technical knowledge, you can check the thickness of your brake pads at home. This visual inspection is not difficult.
Use a flashlight to look through the spokes of your car’s wheels. Once you find the brake pads, you need to pay close attention to the thickness. If the material is less than 1/4 inch thick, it’s time to replace the new brake pads.
