In this article, we’ll show some of the most common symptoms of worn brake pads.
The brake pads are a part of your car’s brake system that actually do the braking.
They are pressed against the disc by the caliper, causing friction and stopping the car.
Brake pads get worn out over time, and here’s how to recognize this.
Besides this website, you can also watch videos on our YouTube channel, where we have many car-related videos that may help with maintenance, driving, etc.
SYMPTOMS OF WORN BRAKE PADS
1. LOW BRAKE FLUID LEVEL
First, you’ll notice a lower brake fluid level in the container.
Because the brake pads are worn, the caliper piston is extended more than normal, and this causes a lower fluid level.
If you want to see how to add brake fluid, click here.
2. THE BRAKE WARNING LIGHT APPEARS
One of the most obvious symptoms of worn brake pads is that the brake warning light comes up on the dashboard.
The light is triggered by a sensor that is built into the brake pad.
When the tip of this sensor reaches the brake disc due to the pad being worn out, it gets a ground connection and turns on the warning light.
3. SQUEALING AND GRINDING NOISE
Also, you’ll probably hear a squealing or grinding noise when you brake.
Because the friction material on the pads wears out, a metal-on-metal contact happens, causing the squealing and grinding sound.
If you hear this, know that the pads are severely worn out.
4. THE CAR PULLS TO ONE SIDE WHEN BRAKING
By this time, you may also notice that the car pulls to one side when braking.
This can be barely noticeable if the brake pads are not that worn out.
But if they are, it may be a very noticeable pull.
5. DAMAGED BRAKE DISCS
This is one of the symptoms of worn brake pads that happens if the brake pads are not replaced on time.
In this case, there is no more friction material, and the metal part of the pad starts damaging the disc.
If you look at the brake disc, you may notice damage like deep grooves, signs of overheating, or even small cracks.
6. BAD BRAKING PERFORMANCE
The last on this list is bad braking performance. You’ll easily notice it by a longer braking distance than usual, and that the pedal may be mushy or even sometimes sink.
Best not to let this problem get to this point, since the car is probably unsafe to drive.
If you want to see what you can do if the brakes fail, click here.
CONCLUSION
Know that brake pads have a regular service interval. If you change them on time, you’ll be spared from all of these symptoms and problems.
Be sure to check the brake discs also and replace them if they are damaged.
All of this is a matter of safety, so it’s very important to do the maintenace on time and in a proper manner.
Written by: Sibin Spasojevic
Former car technician, life-long car and DIY enthusiast, author for Despairrepair.com
Leave a Reply