5 Signs You Need New Brake Pads

You don’t want to be in a situation where you have to slam on your brakes, but nothing happens because your brake pads are damaged and worn out. If you can catch the problem with your brake pads before it becomes an emergency, you won’t need to worry about putting yourself and others at risk when driving. There are some telltale signs that your vehicle needs new brake pads. 

WHAT ARE BRAKE PADS, AND HOW DO THEY WORK?

Brake pads are an important component of the braking system. The brake pad material grips the metal disc and slows your vehicle down when you press the brake pedal. Brake pads wear down with use, meaning you must install new ones periodically.

SIGNS YOU NEED NEW BRAKE PADS

The following are signs that you may need new brake pads:

• You notice that your car isn’t stopping as quickly as it used to.
• Your vehicle pulls to one side when braking.
• It feels like you’re pumping the brakes a lot, or they’re sticking or mushy, or they make noises (squeal).

1. YOU HEAR A SQUEALING NOISE.

Squealing brakes mean the brake pad is rubbing the rotor, which may be wear or a more serious issue. Occasionally hearing this noise may indicate loose wheel bolts or brackets. If the squeal is frequent or has gotten louder, you may need new brake pads; it can happen for several reasons.

• You have worn out brake pads and need new ones installed by a professional mechanic.
• A foreign object or other debris (such as sand) has gotten stuck between the brake pad and rotor.
• Your brakes are not aligned properly.

2. YOU HEAR A CLICKING NOISE.

If you hear a clicking sound when braking, your brake pads are damaged; It is a sign that you need new brake pads. You may also notice a clicking noise if there is an issue with other parts of your car, including the calipers or rotors. Suppose the problem is more serious than just worn-out brakes and requires immediate attention. In that case, it can lead to more dangerous issues like overheating inside the engine compartment or even a fire starting on its own.

3. BRINGING THE CAR TO A STOP TAKES MORE TIME 

As you drive, your brake pads wear down as they rub against the rotor. Making sure your car’s brake pads are in good condition will help ensure that your vehicle stops when required. It means less risk of getting into an accident or having an accident due to faulty brakes.

4. THE NOSE OF YOUR CAR PULLS TO ONE SIDE WHEN YOU BRAKE

You may also notice that when you’re braking, the nose of your car pulls to one side. If this happens, it’s likely that your wheels are not aligned properly and need to be checked or realigned by a certified mechanic. If you have trouble braking with any of the above issues and think your car needs new brake pads, bring it in for an inspection at Don’s Auto today.

5. THE BRAKE PEDAL VIBRATES WHEN PRESSED

If the brake pedal vibrates, you may need new brake pads. Brake pads are a car’s most important safety feature. Replace worn-out brakes as soon as possible. If worn or damaged, they won’t do their job and could cause an accident. 

If you have any questions about your car’s safety, especially brake pads, have our expert mechanic inspect it and Immediately get new ones if you need them. For more information on our auto repair services, call Don’s Auto Repair in Los Angeles, CA, at 323-254-2844.