Brake Pads—How Can You Tell When They Need to Be Changed?
We all know brakes are crucial to the health of our vehicles (and our own health and safety!) but many of us don’t know a whole lot more about our braking system. For instance, your brake pads are responsible for providing the friction that stops your vehicle. This eventually leads to wear and tear of the pad, and the pad will need to be replaced.
So, how can you know when it’s time to change your brake pads? Look out for these signs:
Real reviews from @HoffmanToyota customers ✔https://t.co/V04pWUd6X8pic.twitter.com/vaNl7S1rUv
— Hoffman Toyota (@HoffmanToyota) November 15, 2017
Brake Pad Change | Signs to Look Out For:
- High-Pitched Squeak or Squeal Sound: A persistent squeal or squeak when pressing on your brakes might be an indication that the pad has worn thin, and you may want to consider replacing.
- Spongey Feeling When Pressed: An inadequate response or a spongey feeling when you press on the brakes is a red flag—if you notice this, definitely get it checked out.
- If You See Less Than 1/4-inch of Pad: Your brake pads should be at least 1/4 of an inch thick, and you can actually look into the wheel and see the brake pad if you want to check your own. If there’s less than 1/4 inch, it’s time to book an appointment to get the brake pads replaced!
If you hear or feel any of the above, give us a call or schedule an appointment online to have one of our Hoffman Toyota service pros check it out for you. Being vigilant and knowing what to look for can help you spot problems, but even if you’re not seeing the signs, if it’s time for a brake pad change, it’s still a good idea to do it!