How do you know when a braking pad has actually worn out?
Here are a few things to look out for:
1. Squealing Brake Pads
Ever hear a squealing or screeching noise when you push down on your brake pedal?
That’s actually a safety feature on modern brake pads!
Almost every brake pad manufacturer includes a brake wear indicator in the pads. When these wear indicators rub against the brake rotor, you start to hear the squeal.
If you hear these squeals regularly when you brake, it’s time to take your brake pads in for an inspection.
2. Metallic Grinding
If you hear metallic grinding or screeching instead of a squeal when you brake, consider slowing down your car to a halt immediately.
A metallic grinding sound indicates that your brake pads are completely worn away and that your brake discs are making contact with the brake calipers. This can cause severe damage to your brake system, so you’ll have to get your car inspected as soon as possible.
3. Thin Brake Pads
You don’t have to wait for any squealing or grinding to happen to determine if your brake pads need replacing. You can always observe and measure your braking pad to see if it’s become too thin.
New brake pads are usually 8-12mm thick, and your brake pads should be above 6.4mm (¼ inch) to function correctly. If your brake pads are thinner than 3.2mm (⅛ inch), your brakes are at serious risk of failing.
4. Indicator Lights
Some modern vehicles also have an indicator light that flashes when it’s time to change your brake pads.
However, remember that if you change your brake pads after the indicator lights up, you’ll also have to replace the indicator’s sensor.
How To Make Your Brake Pads Last Longer
It’s safe to say that nobody wants their brake pads to wear off quickly.
