The quicker you identify all the symptoms of bad brake pads, the less damage and danger you cause to yourself. To avoid potential safety risks and ensure that the vehicle’s braking system is functional, paying attention to these symptoms is essential.
But how will you be able to tell if your car’s brake pads go bad? This is why you need to know the various symptoms of bad brake pads. Well, in this reading, we’ll be exploring the six common symptoms of a bad brake pads.
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Symptoms Of A Bad Brake Pads
You’ll experience the following symptoms in your car when the brake pad goes bad or is faulty: squeaking or squealing sound, grinding noise when the brake is applied, the brake light indicator comes on, the brake pad will be thin, it takes time to stop the car, and finally, vibration when braking.
1. Squeaking or Squealing Brakes
One of the first symptoms of bad brake pads most people notice early is the squeaking or squealing noise emanating from the brakes. Overly worn-down brake pads are frequently the cause of the squealing. When your pads are worn out, you will begin to hear a grinding sound. At this point, the rotor will begin to be damaged, which will increase the cost of repair.
2. Grinding Noise When braking
Your brake pads need to be replaced right away if you hear grinding noises when pressing the brake pedal. Some brake pads come equipped with metal wear indicators that emit a loud noise to let you know when it’s time to change the brake pads.
You risk much greater damage and more expensive repairs if you allow the brake pads to continue grinding. Learn more about grinding noise when braking
3. Brake Pad Indicator Light Comes On
Most modern automobiles come equipped with brake warning lights, which are typically situated on the instrument cluster. These lights include the primary brake light, the ABS light, and the parking brake light. In most cars, you may also find a brake pad indicator light.
When there is an issue, your brake light won’t always come on, since it also turns on when your parking brake is used.
4. Your Brake Pads Appear To Be Thin
You can quickly assess the condition of your brake pads by touching them for wear. To do this, locate your brake pad, which is typically between the spokes on your wheels. You should probably replace your brake pads if they appear to be less than 6.4 mm thick, or half of an inch, and if brake dust is present.
5. Car Take Longer To Stop
Loss of performance when applying the brakes is yet another notable sign that your brakes need to be examined. If you notice less-than-ideal stopping distances when applying the brakes, it could be an indication that your brake pads are worn out or that your brake fluid is low (typically as a result of a leak).
You should visit a brake mechanic as soon as you can to ensure that you maintain all braking abilities and to get a true knowledge of what is going on with your brakes.
6. Vibration When Braking
Vibration when braking is one of the obvious signs of a bad brake pad. If your brakes are in good condition, your car will smoothly stop. However, worn brake pads or damaged rotors can cause vibrations in the car. If the car shakes or the steering wheel vibrates when you brake but stops when you release the brake pedal, it’s time to have your brakes serviced.
That’s all for this article, where we discussed the symptoms of bad brake pads. I hope it was helpful. If so, kindly share. Thanks for reading. See you around!