The majority of automobiles possess disc brakes on all four wheels. A disc brake system comprises three major components: a rotor, a caliper, and brake pads. When you apply pressure to the brake pedal, the caliper pushes the pads against the rotor, bringing the vehicle to a halt.
Brake pads and rotors deteriorate over time as you drive. If they wear out beyond a safe limit, braking performance suffers, and the vehicle becomes unsafe to drive, thus calling for the car brake replacement. Other issues, such as rust accumulation, overheating, and stuck brake pads or calipers, can reduce the effectiveness of your brakes and increase braking distance. Regular inspections are essential for keeping your brakes in working order.
Ensuring your brakes are in perfect condition and replacing parts like pads when necessary will be cost-effective in the long run and save you time. An accident may also save your automobile or even your life. But how will you know that you need brake pad replacement?
What are Brake Pads?
Disc brakes and drum brakes are the two significant variants used in automobiles.
- Disc Brakes: When the driver applies the brakes, “pads” of highly designed friction material made of metallic, organic, or ceramic substances get pressed against a “disc.” Or rotor. The friction resulting from the action slows down the vehicle or brings it to a complete halt.
- Drum Brakes: Drum brakes, like disc brake pads, use friction material, but it is attached to the half-moon-shaped “shoes” that press against the inside of a drum when you press down on the brakes. The vehicle is slowed because of the friction caused against the drum. Drum brakes were once standard on all four-wheel positions, but they are now only found on the back wheel of modern cars and light trucks.
Pads and shoes both degrade with use, so keeping track of their state by engaging in regular maintenance and check-ups is critical.
Driving with tattered brake pads or shoes can result in dangerous driving situations and expensive repairs.
What happens when brake pads wear out?
When breaks are applied, a small amount of friction material is worn off the pads causing them to thin down over time. The friction material will wear away completely if the pads or shoes are not removed. Exposing the steel pieces that damage the discs extensively when continuously used.
To determine the time for replacing brake pads or shoes, look for the following indicators:
- Squealing noises
If the brake pads on a vehicle have to wear indicators, a driver may hear a screeching, squealing, or whining noise when brakes are applied. A small metal adhesion produces this sound on the brake pad backing plate designed for this purpose. If you hear it frequently while braking. It’s time to take your vehicle for a car brakes service for a thorough inspection.
- Less than a quarter-inch brake pad
Visually check on the disc brakes on disc brakes to see if they need to be replaced. When you look down on the “calliper” that holds the brake pads, you should see the brake pads compressed against the brake rotor. Consider inspecting your brakes if the friction material on the place or shoe is less than a quarter-inch thick.
Warning light
Vehicles with dashboard indicator lights are signified when it is time to replace the brake pads. Check the car manual and see whether the automobile has a low-pad alert system. Remember that if the light does illuminate. You’ll need your mechanics from a car service in Perth to replace the warning sensors and brake pads.
Car pulling to one side
If your car pulls to one side or the other while driving. It could indicate that your brake pads are worn out or a caliper guide pin or piston is stuck.
Deep metallic grinding noises
If you hear a thick, low noise that sounds like metal scraping. It could be a sign that either your brake pads are worn away, or the backing plates of your brake pads or shoes are making contact with the discs or drums. Because this metal-on-metal contact can quickly cause additional damage to your brakes, take your vehicle to a service shop as soon as possible.
How long do car brakes last?
This question has no specific answers as it will depend on various conditions. The age of your car and the driver. Check for the longevity of the brake when you purchase your vehicle and ensure its regular maintenance. This will help provide you with a constructive idea of its life.
You can prevent costly repairs and life-threatening accidents with attention, meticulous thinking, and foresight. If you call for regular maintenance and timely car brake replacement.
