Don't Let Worn Brake Pads Catch You by Surprise: Learn How to Check Them
Are you aware of the importance of brake pads in ensuring vehicle safety? Many car owners take their brakes for granted and do not pay attention to how worn down they can become. But without taking proper care of your brake pads, you could find yourself in a dangerous situation. So how often should you change them?
In this blog post, we will discuss the answer to this question - Don't Let Worn Brake Pads Catch You by Surprise: Learn How to Check Them.
How Often Should I Change Brake Pads?
Changing brake pads is an important part of any vehicle's maintenance and should not be neglected. Depending on different factors like driving habits or the type of vehicle, the recommended intervals for changing brake pads can vary.
For instance, if you drive mostly in city traffic with frequent stops and starts, your brakes may wear out faster than someone who does a lot of highway driving. The same goes for how much weight your car carries as heavier cars put more strain on their braking systems. Generally speaking, brake pads should be changed every 20,000 to 50,000 miles (32,187 km to 80,467 km), but check with your owner's manual or a trusted mechanic to determine what intervals are best for your specific vehicle.
To ensure that your brakes are in good condition, it is important to regularly check for wear and tear. Check the thickness of your brake pads at least twice a year or every 10,000 miles (16,093 km). If the brake pad has worn down to less than 3mm, then it should be replaced as soon as possible. Pay attention to any squealing or grinding noises coming from the brakes as well; these may indicate that the brake pads need to be changed.
Symptoms of Worn Brake Pads
Driving with worn brake pads can be dangerous, and should be taken seriously. Worn brake pads are characterized by squealing or grinding noises, reduced braking power, and vibration while braking. These signs indicate it's time to change the brake pads as soon as possible.
Failing to replace worn-out brake pads can lead to increased stopping distance which could result in an accident. Furthermore, other components of the brakes such as the calipers, rotors, and drums can also become damaged if not addressed promptly. In extreme cases of wear, the metal backing plate of the pad may come into contact with the rotor causing serious damage that will require expensive repairs.
It is important to keep a close eye on your vehicle’s brake pads and replace them as soon as you notice any signs of wear. Doing this will ensure that your vehicle's brakes remain in top condition for maximum safety.
Additionally, it’s important to have all other brake components checked regularly by a qualified mechanic to make sure everything is functioning correctly. This will help prevent potential accidents due to faulty brakes and allow you to drive with peace of mind knowing that your car is safe.
Is It OK to Just Replace the Brake Pads?
The answer is both yes and no. Replacing the brake pads on your car is an easy process that can be done without involving a professional, but there are some important reasons why getting a professional inspection is recommended. It's important to make sure the entire braking system, not just the pads, is in good working order. Without proper maintenance and inspections of all components, you risk reduced braking performance or even complete failure if something goes wrong.
A professional inspection will ensure that each component has been inspected correctly and any necessary repairs have been made properly. This includes checking the brake fluid levels, inspecting mechanical components such as calipers and rotors for wear or damage, confirming the safety of the brake lines and hoses, and ensuring that all friction material is at the correct thickness.
By having a professional inspect the entire braking system, you can rest assured that it is in good working order and that your brakes will be performing optimally. Having an inspection done also helps to reduce the risk of future problems that could lead to costly repairs down the road.
How Many Years Do Brakes Last?
Depending on the type of vehicle, driving habits and other factors, brakes can last anywhere from 25,000 to 70,000 miles. On average, brake pads should be replaced every 50,000 miles. However, this number can vary depending on the type of vehicle you drive and your driving habits.
Factors that affect the life of your brakes include climate conditions in which you drive (frequent stop-and-go driving will wear down brakes more quickly than highway cruising), how heavily loaded your car is when you’re driving (heavier cars require stronger braking power), and whether or not you are using high-performance braking components. Additionally, regular maintenance such as checking for excessive pad wear and replacing any worn parts will also extend the life of your brakes.
How to Check Brake Pads Without Removing Tires
Checking the brake pads without removing the tires is a straightforward process, but it requires that you pay close attention to details and make sure your brakes are safe. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to check brake pads without removing the tires:
1. Visually inspect the wheel wells for any wear or signs of damage to the brake pads. If there is visible damage, then it’s best to have an expert mechanic check them out before continuing with this process.
2. Open up the hood and locate your vehicle's master cylinder. It should be located at the center of the engine compartment and looks like a large silver container filled with fluid. Remove its top cover using a screwdriver.
3. Look inside the master cylinder and locate the brake pads. They should be tucked away in one of the corners, and lightly colored so that they are easily visible. If you're not sure what to look for, consult your vehicle's manual for help.
4. Once you've located the brake pads, carefully inspect them for any signs of wear or damage. Specifically look at their edges, as this is usually where most of the wear occurs. Also check for any oil or grease on the pads themselves, which could indicate a leaky line somewhere in your braking system.
5. Finally, press down firmly on each pad with your finger to feel its thickness and make sure it's still in good condition. If the pads feel dried out, squishy or overly worn, then it's time to have them replaced.
Tips for Identifying Worn Brake Pads Without Physically Inspecting Them
1. One of the most common signs that your brakes are worn is an increase in braking distance. This means that your vehicle will take longer than normal to come to a complete stop when you press down on the brake pedal.
2. Check underneath the car and look at the brake discs, which are connected to the wheels and allow them to rotate freely when they aren’t being used. If they appear excessively worn or corroded, then this could be an indication that your brake pads are wearing out.
3. Listen for strange noises coming from the brakes when you press down on them. A high-pitched squeal or grinding noise is usually an indication that something isn’t right, and should be looked into as soon as possible.
4. Finally, pay attention to any vibrations or pulsations that occur when you press down the brake pedal and attempt to bring your vehicle to a stop. These are often caused by worn-out brake pads and can lead to serious safety issues if left unchecked.
By following these steps, you can easily check your brake pads without removing the tires and identify any signs of wear before it becomes a major problem. If all else fails and you aren't sure what to do, then it's best to consult a qualified mechanic and have them check your brakes for you.
Conclusion
Regular brake pad inspections and replacements are essential for ensuring vehicle safety and prolonging the lifespan of brakes. NRS Brakes' galvanized brake pads provide a reliable solution to replacing worn-out brake pads, as they are made of superior materials that can hold up against corrosion and wear and tear. In addition, NRS Brakes also offers expert advice and thorough assistance throughout the installation process. Don't let worn-out brake pads catch you by surprise -contact NRS Brakes for inquiries at info@nrsbrakes.com or +1 877-677-2725 today!