2 Signs Your Car's Brake Pads Are Worn-Out And Need Replacing
Posted on: 19 November 2020
As an integral part of your car's braking system, the thick brake pads attached to the calipers push against the disc and create enough friction to slow down and stop your vehicle. When these pads become worn out, it is vital to have them replaced as soon as possible.
If not, you will have difficulty stopping your car, especially when you need it the most to avoid a collision. Be on the lookout for the following signs that your brake pads are worn-out and need to be replaced.
1. Car Is Slow to Stop When the Brakes Are Applied
One sign for which to look when trying to ascertain the condition of your brake pads is the car's reaction time when you apply the brakes. Normally, as soon as you step on the brake pedal, the car will start to slow down. If you slam on the pedal, the stopping will be abrupt.
However, if the pads are wearing down and no longer able to produce as much friction as they should, your car will seem sluggish as it tries to stop. It will take longer for the vehicle to slow down. And you may find that you have to press the pedal further down and hold it just to force the vehicle to a complete stop.
2. Brakes Make a Screeching Noise When Engaged
Another sign of which you should be aware when trying to determine whether it is time to have your brake pads replaced is quite noticeable. Whenever you push down on the brake pedal and the brakes engage with the disc, you will hear a loud screeching noise that lasts until you let up on the pedal.
Because of the decrease in friction between the pads and the surface of the discs, the contact between them will be lighter than normal. Since the pads do not have a firm grip on the discs, they will slide over them until they fully engage. As they slide over the discs, they will create the sound that you are hearing.
If your brake pads are not stopping your car as quickly as they should and are making loud noises when they do engage, they are most likely worn down to the point that they need to be replaced before they wear down completely and make driving hazardous. Take your car to an automotive shop that offers brake repair services to have them fully inspect the braking system to verify that the pads need replacing.
Visit a website like http://www.autoservicefairfax.com to learn more.
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