Understanding How Brake Pads Work, Why They Are Important, and When to Replace Them
Picture this: you’re driving home from the Cobblestone Farmers Market when you press on the breaks but only hear a grinding noise. So, you ask yourself: “Could this be my break pads? And, if it is, what should I do?”
Brake pads are one of the most important parts of your vehicle’s braking system. Because, their job is to press against the brake rotors (the metal discs connected to your wheels) in order to create friction that slows down and stops your vehicle. So, it’s vital that they can do their job to keep you safe on the road. And the best way to do that is to understand how and why they work. So, in this blog, the experts at Meineke in Walkertown explore how brake pads function, why they are essential to your vehicle’s performance and safety, and the signs that it’s time to replace them.
How Brake Pads Work
Brake pads are housed in the brake calipers and positioned on either side of the rotor. So that when you press the brake pedal, hydraulic fluid from the master cylinder forces the calipers to press the brake pads against the rotors. And the friction between the pads and the rotors slows down the rotation of the wheels and brings your vehicle to a stop. However, this action generates a lot of heat. So, the material of the brake pads is specifically designed to withstand high temperatures to provide consistent stopping power.
There are several types of brake pads, including organic, ceramic, and metallic. And each has a different characteristics for heat resistance, wear, and noise levels. So, when you go to replace your brake pads, you can ask the brake experts at Meineke in Walkertown to review the benefits of each one.
Why Brake Pads Are Important
Safety
- Brake pads are directly responsible for ensuring that your vehicle can stop. And, well-maintained brake pads keep your braking system functioning smoothly, allowing you to react quickly to sudden stops or emergencies. Whereas, worn brake pads reduce your ability to stop effectively, increasing your chances of an accident.
Preventing Rotor Damage
- Worn-out brake pads can damage the rotors. Because, when the brake pad material wears down completely, the metal backing can come into direct contact with the rotor. And this can cause grooves, warping, and irreversible damage. Plus, this can lead to expensive repairs, such as needing to replace both the pads and the rotors.
Maintaining Vehicle Performance
- A responsive braking system is key to a smooth driving experience. Because, worn brake pads can cause the vehicle to vibrate when braking. And this can produce strange noises, and even lengthen your stopping distance. Whereas, replacing worn pads ensures that your vehicle performs at its best and remains comfortable to drive.
How to Know When Brake Pads Need Replacement
Squeaking or Squealing Noises
- One of the most common signs that your brake pads need replacing is a high-pitched squealing noise. And this sound is often caused by a metal shim (called an indicator) that rubs against the rotor when the pads have worn thin.
Grinding Sounds
- If you hear a grinding noise when you press the brakes, it’s a sign that the pads are completely worn through. And that the metal backing plate is now in contact with the rotor. Unfortunately, at this stage, both the pads and rotors may need replacement, making it a costly repair.
Vibration When Braking
- Do you feel a pulsing or vibration in the brake pedal when you slow down? It could be a sign that the brake pads are worn unevenly or that the rotors have been damaged by worn pads. Either way, it’s important to have your brakes checked immediately.
Increased Stopping Distance
- A noticeable increase in the distance it takes for your vehicle to stop is a clear sign that your brake pads are wearing out. Because, as they thin, they lose their effectiveness, reducing your vehicle’s ability to stop quickly.
Visual Wear
- If you can see the brake pads through the wheels, you can visually check how much material is left. So, most pads start around 10-12 mm thick. And if they’re less than 3 mm, it’s time to replace them.
Brake Pad Indicator Light
- Many modern vehicles have a brake pad warning light on the dashboard. And if this light comes on, it’s a sure sign that your brake pads are worn out and need immediate attention.
Brake pads are a critical part of your vehicle’s safety and performance.
So, regularly inspect and replace them when necessary to help ensure a smooth and safe ride, and prevent costly rotor damage. And if you notice any signs of wear, it’s time to have your brake pads inspected by the ASE certified mechanics at Meineke in Walkertown. So, don’t wait for a minor issue to become a major, expensive repair, call Meineke in Walkertown today.
If the Meineke in Walkertown, NC is not a convenient location, check out these other locally-owned Meineke North and South Carolina locations:
North Carolina
MEINEKE ASHEVILLE #1596
801 Fairview Road Suite 14
Asheville, NC 28803
Call (833) 720-9793
MEINEKE ASHEVILLE #2467
124 Patton Avenue
Asheville, NC 28801
Call (833) 243-0637
MEINEKE MOORESVILLE #1931
190 E. Plaza Drive
Mooresville, NC 28115
Call (980) 444-0002
MEINEKE LINCOLNTON #2159
2009 East Main Street
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Call (704) 240-9839
MEINEKE WALKERTOWN #2394
5267 Neal Trail Dr
Walkertown, NC 27051
Call (877) 688-8804
MEINEKE ARDEN #2468
2137 Hendersonville Road
Arden, NC 28704
Call (844) 891-3628
MEINEKE HICKORY #2884
1052 11th Avenue Blvd SE
Hickory, NC 28602
Call (828) 270-7267
South Carolina
MEINEKE EASLEY #2983
6949 Calhoun Memorial Hwy
Easley, SC 29640
Call (864) 644-8872
MEINEKE ROCK HILL #1134
2366 Dave Lyle Boulevard
Rock Hill, SC 29730-8931
Call (803) 328-6677
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