How to Check If Your Brake Pads or Discs Need Replacing (And Why You Should Act Fast)
Your car’s brake pads and discs are essential for ensuring safe and reliable braking. Over time, these components wear out and need to be replaced to maintain optimal performance. But how do you know when it’s time to replace them? In this guide, we’ll explain how to check if your brake pads or discs need attention, the dangers of ignoring worn brakes, and why timely replacement is crucial for your safety.
How to Check If Your Brake Pads Need Replacing
Brake pads are designed to wear down over time, but there are clear signs that they may need replacing:
- Listen for Noises
- A squealing or screeching noise when you press the brake pedal is often caused by a wear indicator built into the pads.
- If you hear a grinding noise, it means the pads are completely worn, and the metal backing plate is making contact with the brake disc. This requires immediate attention.
- Check the Thickness of the Pads
- If you can see your brake pads through the wheel spokes, inspect their thickness.
- Pads should be at least 3mm thick. If they’re thinner, it’s time to replace them.
- Dashboard Warning Light
- Many modern cars have a brake pad wear sensor that triggers a warning light on the dashboard when the pads are too low.
- Reduced Braking Performance
- If your car takes longer to stop or the pedal feels less responsive, it could be due to worn brake pads.
How to Check If Your Brake Discs Need Replacing
Brake discs, like pads, wear out over time, but their lifespan is longer. Here’s how to spot the signs of worn discs:
- Feel for Vibrations
- If you notice a vibration or pulsing in the brake pedal or steering wheel when braking, it could indicate warped or unevenly worn discs.
- Inspect for Damage
- Look through your wheels at the discs. Deep grooves, cracks, or scoring are signs they need replacing.
- If the surface is shiny or glazed, this can reduce braking effectiveness and may require replacement.
- Check for Thickness
- Discs have a minimum thickness specified by the manufacturer. If they’re too thin, they won’t dissipate heat properly, which can lead to brake failure. A mechanic can measure this during a service.
Why You Should Replace Worn Brake Pads or Discs
Driving with worn brake pads or discs is extremely dangerous and can lead to:
- Reduced Braking Power
- Worn pads or discs increase stopping distances, putting you at greater risk of accidents, especially in emergency situations or on wet UK roads.
- Damage to Other Components
- Ignoring worn pads can cause damage to the discs, which are more expensive to replace.
- Worn discs can also affect the calipers and other parts of the braking system.
- Legal and MOT Compliance
- In the UK, your car must meet strict braking standards to pass its MOT. Worn pads or discs could cause a failed MOT, leaving you unable to legally drive your car.
- Safety Risks
- Driving with faulty brakes endangers you, your passengers, and other road users.
How Often Should You Check and Replace Brake Pads or Discs?
- Brake Pads: Generally last 20,000 to 40,000 miles, depending on driving habits. Check them at least every 6 months or during regular servicing.
- Brake Discs: Typically last longer than pads, around 50,000 to 70,000 miles, but their lifespan depends on driving style and conditions.
If you’re unsure, it’s best to have them inspected by a professional during your annual service or MOT.
Don’t Wait—Get Your Brakes Checked Today!
If you’ve noticed any of the warning signs above or it’s been a while since your brakes were inspected, it’s time to act. At The Dalby Group, we provide professional brake inspections, pad and disc replacements, and expert advice to keep you safe on the road.
- 📞 Call us on 01903 372937 to book your brake inspection or replacement.
- 📍 We come to you! If you’re in Sussex, Surrey, or Hampshire, we can check and repair your brakes at home or work.
- 🌐 Learn more at www.thedalbygroup.co.uk/repair-services and book your appointment online.
Worn brakes are dangerous and costly if left unchecked. Keep your car in top condition—contact us today to ensure your pads and discs are in perfect working order.
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