Regularly replacing the brake pads is an important aspect of basic automobile maintenance. But how can you tell whether they need to be replaced or not? Here are five basic methods to check if your brakes are worn.
- Screeching noises while braking
- Reduced braking performance.
- Signs that the automobile is pulling to one side when the brakes are used.
- The amount of brake fluid is really low.
- When you brake, you hear grinding sounds.
Let’s look at the signs of damaged brake pads and when it’s time to replace them.
- Screeching sounds
As brakes wear down, the metal of the braking assembly begins to contact the metal of the brake rotors. When you apply the brakes, you will hear a screeching sound caused by the friction between the two metal components. This unpleasant noise was purposefully designed. It is not an indication of brake damage (at least not yet). Instead, this sound is designed to alert the driver that the brake pads have worn out and must be changed soon. Consider it as a reminder that your car requires maintenance.
- Decreased braking performance
Brake pads, like many other things, perform best when they are brand new. As they age and wear down, their efficacy gradually diminishes and they lose braking force. If you find that you have to push the brake harder to bring the car to a stop than you did months before, it is a good indication that the pads are worn out. There are a few additional factors that might cause decreased braking efficiency, but this warning sign should always be treated carefully. Because the brakes are a critical safety component, don’t take any chances; have the automobile checked out by a professional as soon as feasible. Since the process is slow, it may be difficult to detect the decline in braking efficiency. This will become more evident when the brake pads have been replaced and your vehicle feels considerably more responsive when you press the brake pedal.
- Car pulls to the side upon braking
If you notice the car pulling to one side or the other when you apply the brakes, this is another indication that the pads have worn out. Brakes, in principle, should wear uniformly on both sides of the vehicle. In actuality, they nearly never wear evenly. This means that the left brake pad may wear down faster than the right, and vice versa. As a result, if the brakes are near to needing repair, you may notice the car pulling to one side when you apply the brakes.
- Very low brake fluid
If the car is relatively new and you feel it’s time to repair the brakes, there’s a simple technique to confirm this. You only need to check the brake fluid level. If you are unclear where to locate the brake master cylinder, see your car’s owner’s handbook under “How to Check the Brake Fluid.” You will need to open the hood and check where the brake fluid is in respect to the minimum and maximum lines. If the brakes are nearly worn out or need to be changed, the fluid level will be approaching the minimum level. This is because when your brakes wear out, they use more fluid, and the level naturally decreases. If your brake fluid level is barely below the maximum, there is likely another source of automobile difficulties.
- Grinding noises
This is the most significant warning indication, indicating that the brake pads have been entirely consumed. If you hear a grinding sound when you apply the brakes, it might imply that the pads have worn entirely. This indicates that the harm has progressed beyond the previous warning indicators. The noise is the result of the brake assembly grinding against the rotors. When this happens, it might harm the rotors. The rotors will then need to be replaced, along with the brake pads. Driving with brakes in such poor condition not only increases the cost of repair, but it is also unsafe.
Remember that the only way to know if your brakes are still safe to drive on is to have them tested by a professional like Knockout Collision Repair. A mechanic will need to elevate the car, remove the wheel, and check the thickness of the brake pads. This inspection should include check the rotors and brake callipers.
Best Collision Repair Shop in Chico
Knockout Collision Repair – Best Chico Body Shop is the go-to place for quick, dependable, and high-quality auto body repair. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction ensures that you will receive the best service in Chico. Whether there is little damage or a big collision, our crew will work relentlessly to quickly return your car to its original state. Call (530) 899-9202 today to schedule an appointment. Knockout Collision Repair can get you back on the road fast since we know how important your time and vehicle are. Visit knockoutcollisionrepair.com to learn more about our services and book an appointment now!
