When to Replace Brake Pads

Signs You Should Replace Your Brake Pads

It's recommended that you change your brake pads between every 40,000 and 50,000 miles; however, the best way to know what's right for your model is to check with your owner's manual or a service technician. There are a few signs you can look out for, though, that will tell you when it's time to get your brake pads replaced.

With most modern vehicles, this can be easy to tell, thanks to the brake-pad sensors. These are features included in the design of most brake pads that have a few ways to warn you if your brakes are too worn.

Some brake pad sensors will activate a dashboard light or pop-up telling you that you need to get the brake pads replaced. Others will issue a loud squealing sound. At this point, you should try to get your brake pads replaced as soon as possible.

If you start to hear a loud grinding sound, that could mean that your brake pads have either been worn too thin or been worn away entirely. When you reach this point, you're at risk of causing damage to various parts of the brake system.

What Happens if I Don't Change My Brake Pads?

Every time you hit the brakes on your vehicle, your brake pads get worn down slightly more. Since the brake pads exist mainly to prevent the metal parts of your brake system from scraping against each other, letting the brake pads get too worn down can lead to internal damage.

This can damage the brake rotors or calipers, which can be a more involved fix.

You'll also find that your brakes are less effective. You might have to press harder to reach a full stop or find that your car vibrates when braking. As the brakes are the most important safety system in a vehicle, it's important that you do everything possible to keep your brakes in top condition.

Brake Maintenance

So, what can you do to maintain your vehicle's brakes and overall performance? Regular inspections and service are key. Even if you don't know how often your specific model needs the brake pads replaced, a qualified mechanic will be able to check for you at each inspection and catch it before you start to notice a change in performance.