Texas Auto Repair

Generally speaking, brake pads should be replaced about every 50,000 miles. Whether a driver would need them replaced sooner or later than that, however, depends on the individual person's driving habits, driving environment, and the material or composition of the brake pads themselves.

Fortunately, there's no need to be an expert on these various conditions in order to stay on top of your car's upkeep! Knowing what signs to look out for, as well as how to extend the lifespan of your brake pads, will effectively suffice in promoting the maintenance and safety of your vehicle and any driver behind its wheel.

Signs Your Brake Pads Need To Be Replaced

1. Hearing squeaking or grinding sounds when hitting the brakes. This is usually the first sign brake pads have neared the end of their functional lifespan; it's evidence the pads have worn down and are no longer performing optimally. If you hear squeaking, squealing, or grinding sounds when braking, be sure to take your car in for servicing as soon as possible. Continuing to drive on brake pads that need to be replaced may lead to the rotors becoming damaged, which may necessitate their replacement as well. Remember, costs aside, your safety is most important!

2. Feeling vibrations when braking. Many professionals feel this symptom is a step beyond the previous. When your brakes go from squeaking and grinding to outright vibrating, that's typically a sign of not only worn out brake pads but also damaged rotors.

3. Your car takes longer to stop. This may seem intuitive, but it's important to keep an eye on how effectively your car stops when you hit the brakes. If your car isn't stopping as quickly as it used to, your pads most likely need to be replaced.

4. A brake pad warning light has appeared on your dashboard. Older vehicles may not have this helpful indicator, but most newer models do. If your indicator light comes on, be sure to heed its warning and see a professional as soon as possible.

Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Brakes

1. Try not to overwork your car. This may include overloading it, driving downhill, or any other action which puts excessive strain on the brakes.

2. Replace brake pads when needed. Doing so protects your car's rotors, which in turn helps maintain your car's overall ability to brake effectively.

3. Avoid unnecessarily slamming on the brakes. Drive safely and defensively and make sure to heed the speed limit. Again, your safety is paramount!

If you're in need of brake pad replacement, repair, or simply a routine safety and maintenance check, be sure to bring your vehicle into Kwik Kay Auto Repair today.