Worn Brake Pads: When To Change Brake Pads
Knowledge is power, and the more you understand, the better you'll be able to apply what you've learned in real-life situations.
The same can be applied to brake pads; we all know that every car has a braking system.
You may also own a car that has a service brake system installed. This will show a brake light somewhere on your dashboard when the brakes need servicing. A very handy light.
Here are some facts regarding car brake pads that we don't think you're familiar with.
Brake Pads Wear Out With Time
Regardless of whether your brakes use metallic pads, organic pads , ceramic pads, or composite materials, they lose a little amount of material with each use.
They wear out with time, which means they can't generate as much heat from friction, limiting their ability to stop the automobile quickly and perhaps increasing the distances required.
They will ultimately wear out, causing a range of issues.
Brake pads last between 25,000 and 40,000 kilometers on average
The brake pads are responsible for putting your vehicle to a full halt when you press down on the brake pedal.
The friction-conducive material in the brake pad scrapes against the rotor, slowing it and, as a result, the wheels.
That material, however, will deteriorate with time, leaving just the metal backing.
Brake pads have an average lifespan of 40,000 miles, but the range is broad: it may be anywhere from 20,000 to 65,000 miles.
A multitude of factors, including your driving habits and the type of brake pads you use, impact the lifetime of your brake pads.
Driving slower, for example, can extend the life of your brake pads. Although that would depend how often you dip the brake pedal if you are a natural cautious driver.
Driving with a car brake problem is dangerous
It is unsafe to drive a car with a known braking system malfunction, and it is not recommended.
Hopefully you will have a car that is fitted with a service brake system, and a brake warning light will appear on your dashboard in front of you.
This would be something that resembles a braking system and means that your car brakes need URGENT assistance.
For a bigger fault, this light will more than likely be RED. This is a sign that it is URGENT to get the brakes sorted NOW.
This could be a low brake pad issue, or a hydraulic brake problem that needs urgent assistance.
Because old brake pads can increase stopping distances, it's typically a good idea to change them as soon as possible for your safety.
If any of the following circumstances exist, you should not continue driving and seek help as soon as possible:
- The brake pedal is not firm or is low
- braking power assistance is lost
- the automobile leans severely to one side when braking
- the brake system warning light is activated
Visual examination
Brake pads should be evaluated for wear and tear on a regular basis. The outside pad may be seen through the spokes of the wheel, but depending on the vehicle, it may be pushed onto the brake disc.
At least 3mm of pad should be visible. Check the brake pads if you detect anything less.
This is the type of inspection you should expect during a car service, but be warned that some sketchy shops may omit the wheel removal portion of the inspection, so choose a garage you can trust.
It's usually safe to drive to your destination if you hear strange noises like screeching or grinding, but make sure your stopping distances are close to what you're used to, the brake pedal is firm, and there are no warning lights before considering doing this.
However, make a service appointment as soon as feasible. When it comes to your vehicle's brakes, always steer clear of caution and have a professional examine your car brake pads and braking system at the first hint of trouble.
Warped Brake Rotors
A pulsing or vibrating brake pedal might suggest warped rotors, but it can also signal that your car is out of alignment.
When a car equipped with anti-lock brakes comes to a sudden halt, the vibration may mimic brake pedal feedback.
When the vibration occurs when braking and the anti-lock brakes are turned off, it is an indicator of warped rotors.
Severe braking over a lengthy period of time, such as while driving down a steep mountain or towing, causes warped rotors.
Under these conditions, massive quantities of friction are generated, which heats the rotors and causes them to bend.
Because the brake pads are unable to grab the surface uniformly, vibration is observed.
Pullover to the side of the road and let your brakes cool if you're driving in these conditions.
Normally you will know if you are affected as you will be able to smell the brakes burning due to the resins coming out of the pads onto the hot discs.
Many owners underestimate the need of keeping their vehicle's brakes in good working order.
Keeping your brakes tuned and in good working order, on the other hand, may save you money in the long run and, more significantly, help you avoid an accident.
Conclusion
Nothing is more crucial than your brakes when it comes to keeping you safe on the road.
They not only keep you secure, but they also keep everyone else around you safe.
Best of all, they're not expensive to repair, and if you recognize the symptoms that your brake pads need to be replaced, you may save hundreds of dollars over the life of your car.
