 | Anthony Splitter has been in the automotive repair industry for 24 years, and has been the Owner/Manager of Downing Motor Service for 8 years. For more information or to contact Anthony please call 620-231-4792. |
Automotive Service & Repair
2010-10-01 11:45:00
When is it time to replace brakes?
Question: I have regular maintenance done on my vehicle but can you give me some tips on when to replace my brakes? What are the warning signs of f ailing brakes?
Answer: You are wise in being concerned with knowing when to change your brake pads. Replacing your brake pads is essential to the safe operation of your vehicle. When you apply the brakes, pressure is put on the brake pad. Over time, the pads wear down, reducing their ability to effectively stop the vehicle.
Fortunately, it is not difficult to know when you are in need of new brake pads. Most people with disc brakes become aware there is a problem when the brakes start making a squealing, metal on metal noise. This noise is caused by the wear indicator, a small piece of metal that is attached to the brake pad that rubs the rotor when the brake pads are worn to a certain point. The grinding noise is a sure indicator that the brake pads are at the end of their life and need immediate replacement.
Secondly, you can tell if your brakes need replaced by a visual inspection of them. New brake pads are 12mm thick and should be replaced when they reach 4mm. Also, if the brake pads are worn down, they will leave a deep, circular grooves in the brake rotor. These grooves look much like grooves on a record. Those grooves are another good indication it is time to replace the brakes. If the grooves are not too deep, it may be possible to have them turned, or machined to provide a new smooth surface. If they are severely damaged, the rotor may need to be replaced as well.
Here are a few common indicators that brakes may be failing:
•Brake indicator light is on
•Pulling to one side or “grabbing”
•Clicking, grinding or squealing
noise when braking
•Reduced brake performance
•Pulsation of the brake pedal
The actual lifespan of your brakes is typically tens of thousands of miles but also depends on the type of vehicle and how frequently they are used. The bottom line is that brakes should be regularly checked for wear and changed as soon as you notice they are grinding or reach around 4mm in thickness to avoid serious damage to the car or risk of injury.
While there are other things that can affect braking ability, such as water or oil on the brakes, any reduced braking ability should be checked out. It is only a minor inconvenience to have brakes checked and one that cannot only prevent costly damage to your car, but may save your life.
