Five Signs of Brake Pad Problems

`Owning a car is a lifetime investment. Cars have become an integral part of our lives, and it is now hard to imagine a world without them. Owning a car not only guarantees an unmatched level of freedom and independence but also saves time and boosts your safety.

And while there are numerous vital components of a car, you would agree with me that your car’s brakes are arguably one of its most crucial parts. Their proper functioning is crucial as it not only ensures the safety of its occupants but other road users as well. And this is one of the main reasons why car owners are highly recommended to always change their car’s brakes after every 50,000 miles. But in certain circumstances, some car owners may feel that they need to change their cars’ brakes even before attaining the 50,000 miles. But what are some of the tell-tale signs that should warrant changing the brakes of your car? Below are five signs that may force you to change your car’s brakes.

• You constantly hear a deep grinding metal sound: As a car owner, you not only need to routinely examine your vehicle for squeaking sounds, but you must also watch for any metal grinding sounds. It is worth noting that these sounds are somewhat more common in smaller cars. In modern cars, however, manufacturers usually install metal ridges onto the brake pads, which are usually found at the bottom of the brake pad. This simply implies that grinding metal noises can be a sign of brake pad problems. But bearing in mind that deep metal grinding sound can indicate lots of other issues, you should always seek the assistance of a professional to help diagnose and subsequently solve the emerging problem.

• The brake light is on: Nowadays, several car manufacturers equip their vehicles with brake pad sensors that spring into action immediately the brakes become worn out. This implies that if your brake light has been in operation for quite some time now, you need to consult your local car expert on whether to replace your car’s brake pads or not.

• Your brake pad’s thickness has reduced to a quarter of the original: It is worth noting that a significant number of modern cars feature brake pads that are fitted between the spokes of the car wheel, implying that you can easily spot the brake pads. If you suspect that your car’s brake pads are malfunctioning, you will first need to assess them and see whether they have become excessively thin or not. And if they are relatively thinner, you must replace them immediately.

• You hear your brake pads vibrating anytime you stake on the brakes: When brake pads become worn out or old, they will likely start to vibrate every time you press the brake pedals. In case you didn’t know, vibrating brake pads only show that you need to act fairly faster and examine because this could be an indication of a more serious problem.

• Your car’s brakes keep producing funny sounds even in normal weather conditions: It is pretty common and somehow normal for a car’s brake pads to produce funny sounds in rainy weather. But if yours is making these squeaking noises even during normal weather, the chances are high that those brakes are worn out and thus require immediate replacement.

The bottom line:

If you are a car owner, your safety is imperative and that is why you must make sure your car’s brakes are in tip-top condition at all times. One of the things you can do to enhance the lifespan of your car’s brake pads is to rotate your tires every six months. And if your car has been experiencing any of the above symptoms, kindly act first and schedule an appointment with a technician.

Time to Visit Your Fraser, MI Auto Repair Shop?

Feel free to stop in and visit Car Guys Auto Center today or give us a call at (586) 285-4444!  We would be happy to answer any auto-related questions you may have.  We are located at :

Car Guys Auto Center
32639 Groesbeck Hwy
Fraser, MI 48026