Are You Driving With Worn Brake Pads? 3 Signs it’s Time for a Brake Pad Replacement

Whether you drive a luxury BMW, rugged Subaru or eco-friendly Tesla, you rely on your brake pads every day. However, wear and tear can eventually take a toll on them. For more information on how your brake pads work, check out our other article with NAPA Auto Parts. If you notice that it takes longer to slow down or you have to push your foot down further to stop, it may be time for a brake pad replacement. Here are a few other signs to look out for:

1. Your Car Vibrates When Braking
If you feel vibrations in your car when you apply the brakes, it may be a sign of worn brake pads. Vibrations can indicate uneven wear on the pads or warped rotors, which may require a brake pad replacement.
2. You Hear Squeaking or Squealing When Braking
If you hear squeaking or squealing noises when you apply the brakes, it's likely a sign that your brake pads are worn down and need to be replaced. Squeaking or squealing can be caused by the brake pad wear indicator, which is designed to make noise when the brake pads are too thin.
3. Your Car Takes Longer To Stop
If you notice that your car takes longer to come to a complete stop when you apply the brakes, it may be a sign of worn brake pads. Reduced braking performance can be dangerous and may require immediate brake pad replacement to ensure safe driving.

How Often Do I Need New Brake Pads?

At Wilton Auto and Tire, we strongly advise against driving with worn brake pads, as it can be extremely dangerous. Your car's parts all work together as a system, and neglecting one part can lead to damage in other areas. For instance, if you drive with worn brake pads, it can cause damage to your tires and even to the entire braking system if your rotors are exposed. When this happens, our customers often describe hearing a grinding noise when stopping. This is not only unpleasant for you and those around you, but also a clear warning sign that action is needed immediately. Don't ignore this red flag! How often you need to replace your brakes and how long they will last depends on several factors. These include your driving conditions, such as whether you drive mostly on the highway or in town, and whether you live in a hilly environment that requires frequent braking. The type of vehicle you drive is also important, with heavier vehicles like trucks and SUVs generally wearing down brakes more quickly than smaller sedans. In general, most brakes will last around 30-35,000 miles. However, heavy vehicles driven in town or hilly areas may wear down brakes more quickly, while brakes on vehicles driven mostly on the highway may last up to 50,000 miles or more.

Wilton Auto and Tire Center’s Brake Pad Replacement Service.

A properly maintained brake system is essential for the safety of you and your family. Don’t wait until you’re squealing at every stop light. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, give us a call and schedule a brake repair appointment to get your brake pads replaced.