Valley Automall 702-570-2257 | Serving the Henderson Area
The quality of your brake pads will have a huge impact on the responsiveness and safety of your vehicle. Driving with worn out brake pads can lead to delayed stops and can even increase the likelihood of experiencing a motor vehicle accident. Read on to learn more about how often to change brake pads, how they work, and why they’re so important.
What are Brake Pads and How do they Work?
Brake pads are among the most important components in any vehicle. Attached directly to the rotor of each wheel, your brake pads are responsible for bringing the vehicle to a stop when you push the brake pedal. As pressure is applied to the brake pedal, the brake pad will clamp down on the rotor, forcing the wheels to stop turning. Brake pads are either composed of a semi- metallic material or ceramic. Both options come with their own set of pros and cons, so selecting the right option for you comes down to personal preference. With that said, it’s always advisable to follow your owner’s manual when selecting brake pads for your particular make and model.
Indications that it’s Time to Replace your Brake Pads
Worn-out brake pads tend to make a lot of noise when in use. It’s not unusual to hear a high- pitched screeching sound when coming to a stop or a consistent clicking noise when putting pressure on the brake pedal. However, the single most dangerous sign of bad brake pads is the inability to come to a full stop quickly when traveling at a moderate to high rate of speed. In addition, some of today’s most modern vehicles come equipped with a brake pad wear indicator to notify drivers when the pads aren’t performing properly. If you notice these issues, it’s critical to have the brake pads replaced as soon as possible. Remember, always replace all the brake pads at the same time, even if the others are in good condition. This will ensure that the pads don’t wear down unevenly from one wheel to another.
How Often to Change Brake Pads
In general, it’s recommended to replace brake pads at least every 20,000 miles. Drivers who put considerable mileage on their vehicles may need to change out brake pads more often. The rotors themselves should also be replaced every few years. It’s possible to inspect the brake pads on most vehicles without removing the tires. They’re often seen just behind the hubcap along the inside of the wheel. If the brake pad appears much thinner than they were when they were purchased, it’s likely time to change them out.
When it’s time to have your brake pads serviced or replaced, our automotive team at Valley Automall has you covered. Along with providing time and money-saving service specials like brake pad replacement, we also offer competitive part specials on brake pads and rotors for many of today’s most popular vehicles. Visit Valley Automall today for professional support.