What are Brake Pads?
Brake pads are made of steel backing plates and friction material that come in contact with rotors during braking. The two front wheels of a car have metallic discs called rotors—located behind the wheel and above the caliper. During braking, the rotors are squeezed, causing friction, leading to the wheels to slow down. Brake pads reduce friction and wear down over time. When brake pads get too thin, brakes will not work as effectively, which can be very dangerous. Be sure to pay attention to the following signs to ensure that you replace your brake pads before they wear down too much. Procrastination, in this case, could cost you your safety.
1. Screeching Noise
Because it is so dangerous when brake pads wear down, there have built-in wear indicators. One of these is a screeching noise—this occurs when metal is rubbing against metal. This grating noise is very unpleasant. It will certainly motivate you to replace your brake pads as soon as possible. This noise is not only obnoxious but also very unsafe.
2. Clicking Noise
Braking pads are positioned differently in different types of cars. No matter how it is fitted, it should not be wobbly at all. If a brake pad does come loose, it will rattle. If this is the case, when you brake, the rattling will cause a clicking sound. If you hear a clicking sound when you are braking, it’s a sign that your brake pads need replacing or at least tightening.
3. Braking Slowly
Another sign of worn-out a brake pad is having trouble breaking. If your vehicle is struggling to slow down and come to a complete stop. Braking slowly is another indicator that brakes are struggling. Be sure to check your brakes and brake pads immediately after noticing this warning sign.
4. Vibrating Brake Pedal
When you are pressing down on your brake pedal, do you notice it shaking or vibrating at all? Brake pads are held together with a binding resin. When the pads wear down, the adhesive can smear across the rotor—this is called glazing. It causes the brake pedal to vibrate and makes it less reliable. As soon as you notice vibrating, take your car in to be looked out. Vibrating pedals mean unreliable brakes.
If you have noticed any of these signs of your brake pads wearing down, don’t procrastinate. For your safety and the safety of anyone potentially riding in your car, replace your brake pads at the first sign of trouble. Stay safe—take care of your brakes and take care of your vehicle. For all of your car maintenance needs, see the experts at RKX Tech. Whether you need brake pads, brake fluid, or another fix—RKX Tech can help.