How Do I Know if My Brake Pads Are Worn?
Your brakes are one of the most important parts of your vehicle because they keep you in control at all times while driving across the roads of Vista, Escondido, and Carlsbad, CA. However, certain components, like your brake pads, are subject to wear. When they’re worn down enough, they’ll need to be replaced.
How do I know if my brake pads are worn? Our team at Norm Reeves Honda Superstore Vista is here to help you learn more!
Knowing Your Braking System
Your brake pads are a part of a whole network of parts that all work together to help you slow down, or even stop your vehicle. It begins when you press your brake pedal. When you do this, it forces fluid through the lines to help drive the piston into the master cylinder. This will then force the calipers to clamp down.
This is where your brake pads come in. They’re attached to the calipers, so when they clamp down, it forces your pads against the rotors. This creates friction and causes your wheels to slow their spin.
Why Do Brake Pads Wear?
Your brake pads are actually designed to wear down. Considering that their function is to essentially grind against a metal rotor, it causes the softer metal on your pads to begin to wear away. Over time, they’ll become worn enough that you’ll need to have them replaced. When they’re worn at this level, it could lead to braking complications, so in the interest of safety, you’ll want to schedule service as soon as possible.
How Long Do Brake Pads Last?
Since most parts and services vary based on mileage, it all depends. However, since brake pads have quite a range in terms of how long they last, it varies, but a good estimate is about every 40,000 miles. Of course, this range could be shortened based on how you brake. Hard braking will cause your pads to wear sooner, so be mindful of your driving practices to know when to schedule a brake pad replacement.
How to Tell My Brake Pads Have Worn
Your brake pads will let you know they need to be replaced by emitting a high-pitched squealing sound. Each brake pad features a wear indicator, which is a metal tab that’s buried beneath the surface. When your brake pads have worn down and need to be replaced, the metal tab will press against the rotors when you brake, which will cause this noise.
Schedule Your Brake Pad Replacement Today
Now that you know how to tell when you need a brake pad replacement, as well as what your pads do and how long they’re designed to last, you’ll be prepared for when the time comes that they have worn. When you hear the high-pitched squeal from the wear indicator, or it’s been 40,000 or more miles since your last brake pad replacement, you can contact us at Norm Reeves Honda Superstore Vista for help!
Our team is here to make sure your vehicle has everything it needs to perform at its best on the roads of Vista, Escondido, and Carlsbad, California!