Brake pad maintenance: how to look after your brake pads

Brake pads are an essential component of any vehicle’s braking system, and they need to be maintained to ensure they function correctly. 

Brake pads are designed to provide friction to the brake rotor, slowing the vehicle down and stopping it. Over time, the brake pads will wear down and require replacement. In this article, we will explore the importance of maintaining your brake pads and provide tips for doing so.

Why Brake Pad Maintenance Is Important

Maintaining your brake pads is important for several reasons. 

First, brake pads that are in good condition provide reliable stopping power, which is essential for the safety of the driver, passengers, and other drivers on the road. Second, brake pads that are in good condition can help prevent damage to other components of the braking system, such as brake rotors, calipers, and master cylinders. Lastly, maintaining your brake pads can help you avoid costly repairs and replacements.

Brake Pad Maintenance Tips 

Know the Signs of Brake Pad Wear

The first step in maintaining your brake pads is to know the signs of wear. The most common symptom is a squeaking or squealing noise when you apply the brakes. This is caused by a wear indicator on the brake pad designed to make noise when the pad is getting low. Other signs of wear include a vibration or pulsation in the brake pedal, a longer stopping distance, and a visible decrease in the brake pad’s thickness.

Regularly Inspect Your Brake Pads

It’s essential to inspect your brake pads regularly to ensure they are in good condition. You can inspect the brake pads by looking through the wheel’s spokes or by removing the wheel to get a closer look. Check for signs of wear, such as a thinning pad or glazing on the pad’s surface. If you’re uncomfortable doing this, you can have a mechanic inspect your brakes during routine maintenance.

Change Your Brake Pads Regularly

If your brake pads are worn, it’s essential to replace them as soon as possible. Most manufacturers recommend replacing the brake pads every 25,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and usage. If you hear a squealing noise or notice any other signs of wear, it’s essential to have the pads replaced immediately.

Use Quality Brake Pads

When replacing your brake pads, it’s essential to use high-quality pads that are designed for your specific make and model of vehicle. Cheap, low-quality brake pads can wear out quickly, reducing stopping power and potentially causing damage to other components of the braking system.

Follow Proper Braking Techniques

Lastly, following proper braking techniques is important to avoid excessive wear on your brake pads. Avoid sudden stops and try to brake gently when coming to a stop. This can help extend the life of your brake pads and prevent unnecessary wear and tear.

Wrapping Up

Maintaining your brake pads is essential for the safety of your vehicle and its passengers, as well as the longevity of the braking system. By knowing the signs of wear, regularly inspecting your brake pads, changing them when necessary, using high-quality pads, and following proper braking techniques, you can ensure that your brakes are always in good condition and provide reliable stopping power when you need it most.

Check back to the Frontech blog soon for more tips and tricks. We’re auto parts wholesalers that you can depend on, whatever the size of your mechanics business or distribution firm.