5 Signs You Need To Replace Your Brake Pads.
Published May 1st, 2022
It’s all or nothing with brakes. Your car will still work safely with slightly worn tyres, but wear and tear on brakes can have devastating consequences.
“So-so” brakes may be as good as no brakes in an emergency, and challenging weather conditions or road surfaces can push brakes that are in less-than-ideal condition over the edge. If you’re driving with worn out brake pads, you’re putting yourself, your family and the public in danger.
Here are five signs that you need to replace your brake pads.
- The indicator light flashes
The most obvious indicator of a problem is a flashing red light on your dashboard. Never ignore it in the hope that it will go away without any action on your part. In many modern cars it’s linked to sensors on the brake pads, so if it comes on, pay attention. Take your car to a reliable service centre like ABS Auto to have your brakes checked.
- Screeching sounds
This red flag is hard to ignore, but you’d be surprised at how many people do just that. While certain weather conditions may cause even good brakes to screech, if yours are regularly making a sound in rain or shine, your brake pads need attention pronto.
- Grinding noises
Some car manufacturers put metal ridges below the brake pad which, when the pad is worn away, will grind against the metal of the wheel. If you hear a deep grinding noise, head to a reputable car service centre. If you wait too long, you risk serious damage to your entire brakes, and you don’t want to find yourself having to replace the disc and everything else involved.
- A juddering brake pedal
Does your brake pedal vibrate or seem to judder when you press it? Perhaps it feels as though there’s some unusual resistance – as though you’re pushing the pedal into sand. Any of these experiences should tell you that you need to have your brake pads checked out immediately.
- Worn brake pads
One good look at your brake pads will tell you all you need to know. If they’re less than 0.6cm thick, you’ll need to replace them very soon.
If in doubt, visit a reputable service centre like ABS Auto to get your brakes checked. We only use high-quality parts, because your safety is our priority.