Brake Pad Replacement

 

Notice a grinding, scraping or squealing noise when you press your brake pedals, that high-pitched squeal is actually your car’s built-in warning system, reminding you it’s time to replace the brakes. It’s still safe to drive if your brakes are squealing, but you should schedule service as soon as possible. A grinding sound indicates that the brake pads have worn all the way to the metal tab under the pad and the car shouldn’t be driven. It’s best to bring your vehicle in for service before this happens.

Brake pads have a lifespan between 40,000 kilometers and 100,000 kilometers, which can                                                             vary depending on your driving style.

Some other things to be on the lookout for are:

-     Your vehicle doesn’t come to a stop as quickly as it used to.

-     Your brakes feel as though they’re vibrating or shaking when you use them.

-     Your vehicle is pulling to one side as you drive, which could mean you need to
    replace another part in your brake system — the brake caliper. Watch out for other

    bad brake caliper symptoms like a squealing or metallic rubbing noise, uneven brake

    pad wear, leaking brake fluid, and a clunking sound.

-     Your vehicle vibrating when you apply the brakes is another sign that your vehicle’s

    braking system is in need of a service appointment. Chances are your rotors are warped

    and created uneven brake pad wear at the same time.

-     Your brake pads appear to be thin. One way to easily check on your brake pads is to visually

    inspect them for wear. Look between the spokes of your wheels and locate your brake pad.

    If it appears to be less than an ¼ inch thick, you’re probably due for a set of new brake pads.