When do brake pads start to wear out?
Since the brake pads get used whenever you step on the brake pedal, they tend to wear out after about 50,000 miles. However, you can get a longer life out of your brake pads if you use ones which have the right thickness. We will go over thickness levels below.
What happens when your brake pads get too thin?
When your brake pads rub up against the discs, it wears down their friction material. When we measure the thickness of a brake pad, we are measuring the thickness of this material. If your friction material were to get too thin, then it would not be able to slow down your vehicle quickly after you step on the brake pedal.
Where can I buy new brake pads for my car?
While you can purchase new brake pads at your local auto parts store or online, the best way to get the right brake pads is to get them replaced at the dealership which sold you the vehicle.
Can you check your brake pads without removing the wheel?
Here’s what you need to check your brake pads without removing the wheel: On most cars, if you want to check the brake pads without removing the wheel, you’ll be able to see the pads through the holes in the wheel. Frequently you don’t even have to lift the car to be able to see the brake pad.
When do you know you need new brake pads?
Generally, there should be at least 1/4 inch of pad. If you see less than 1/4 inch of pad, you may want to have your brake pads inspected or replaced. Have you ever heard a high-pitched screeching sound when you applied your brakes?
Why do front brake pads wear out faster than back?
With more force being applied to the front of the vehicle every time you step on the brake pedal, it’s easy to see why your front brake pads wear out before the rear. This is why it’s possible you’ll have to replace your front brake pads more than your back.
What should I use to replace front disc brake pads?
When ever I’m replacing front or rear disc brake pads I take the extra time to replace the old caliper slides or at least disassemble clean and properly lubricate the slides. I prefer to use specialized caliper lube for this. It lasts longer and is water proof.
What happens if you use the wrong kind of lubricant on brake pads?
If you use the wrong kind of lubricant on the caliper slides they can begin to bind down the road and cause problems. The incorrect stuff like petroleum jelly can melt and drip onto the replacement brake pads and the rotors.