Wear and tear on your brakes can have serious consequences. Brakes that are not working properly are extremely dangerous especially in challenging weather conditions or on unsafe road surfaces where you have to break suddenly. Driving with worn out brake pads is putting yourself, your family and the wider community in danger.
What are brake pads?
Brake pads provide the friction to slow or stop your vehicle. The pressure and friction applied to the brake rotor is what slows and stops the wheel. Once the wheels stop turning, the vehicle stops moving.
Here is a list of the five signs that you need to replace your brake pads.
The indicator light flashes
Most modern cars have sensors on their brake pads which will cause a red light to flash on your dashboard if there is a problem. If this light starts flashing it is important that you do not ignore it, and get your brake pads checked at a reliable service centre like Sandgate Auto Electrics immediately.
Screeching sounds
Although certain weather conditions does cause even good brakes to screech if your brakes are regularly making screeching noises this is a good sign your brake pads are in need of some attention.
Grinding Noises
Some cars have metal ridges below the brake pad which will grind against the metal of the wheel when the brake pad is worn away. If you hear a grinding noise and you wait too long, you may seriously damage your entire brakes. This would require a complete replacement of the disc.
A Vibrating Brake Pedal
Do you feel the brake pedal vibrate when you press it? Or does there feel like there is some unusual resistance? If so you need to get your trusted mechanic to check your brake pads immediately.
Worn Brake Pads
If your brake pads are less the 0.6cm thick it is definitely time to have your brake pads replaced. If you are unsure it always best to get a professional to have a look for you. At Sandgate Auto Electrics we use only high-quality parts to ensure the safety of our clients.
If you need further advice, or for a certified technician to assess your vehicle’s brake pads, call us on (07) 3269 3158 or book a job using the button below. We are located 113 Connaught Street Sandgate QLD 4017. Feel free to visit us at any time.