Warning Signs of Worn-Out Brake Pads

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Brake pads play a crucial role in slowing down and stopping your vehicle safely.

Over time, they wear out, and if not replaced in time, they can compromise your braking system and lead to dangerous situations. Here are the key signs that indicate it's time to replace your brake pads:

Unusual Noises When Braking

One of the most common indicators of worn brake pads is noise. There are two types to watch out for:

• Squeaking or squealing sound – This often occurs when the brake pads are nearly worn out.
• Grinding noise – A deep metallic scraping sound means the brake pads are completely worn, and the metal components are rubbing against each other. Immediate replacement is necessary.

Increased Braking Distance

• If you notice that you need to press the brake pedal deeper than usual, or if your car continues moving despite pressing the brakes, your brake pads might be too thin. If multiple presses are needed for the brakes to work properly, it's time to get them checked.

Brake Warning Light on the Dashboard

• Most modern vehicles have a brake warning indicator. If the brake fluid level drops due to thinning brake pads or if a sensor detects excessive wear, the warning light will turn on. Do not ignore this sign—get your brakes inspected immediately.

Handbrake Needs to Be Pulled Higher

• If you need to pull the handbrake much higher than usual to prevent the car from rolling, it could indicate worn-out brake pads. A thorough inspection is required.

Low Brake Fluid Levels

• A sudden drop in brake fluid without any visible leaks might indicate that your brake pads are worn. As the pads wear down, the caliper pistons extend further, consuming more brake fluid in the process.

Visible Brake Pad Wear

• You can inspect your brake pads visually. If they are thinner than 3mm, it’s time for a replacement. Ignoring this could damage other components like the brake rotors and calipers.

Steering Wheel or Brake Pedal Vibrations

• If your steering wheel or brake pedal vibrates when you apply the brakes, it could be a sign of uneven brake pad wear or warped rotors. This issue affects braking efficiency and should be addressed immediately.

How to Extend the Life of Your Brake Pads

To keep your brake pads in good condition for longer, follow these tips:

• Avoid sudden braking – Driving at a moderate speed and braking smoothly reduces unnecessary wear on your brake pads.
• Use engine braking on steep roads – Instead of relying solely on your brakes when driving downhill, shift to a lower gear to reduce the load on your brake pads.
• Reduce unnecessary weight – Carrying excess weight in your car increases the strain on your brakes. Removing unneeded items can help prolong brake pad life and improve fuel efficiency.

Brake pads typically last between 20,000 – 40,000 km, depending on driving habits and road conditions. However, waiting for the mileage to hit the limit isn’t always the best approach. Regularly checking for these warning signs and replacing brake pads in time ensures safety and prevents costly repairs. If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t delay—get your brakes inspected and replaced if necessary.

Read More:  When Should I Change My Brake Pads?

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