While driving the first and for most thing which ensures safety to the driver is the proper working of the
brake pads. To stop or to slow down the brakes enable the driver to do it safely.
When to check the brakes –
According to Cars.com, there is no specific time as to when you can check your brakes but it should be
checked regularly to help you determine the amount of wear and tear it has got. It depends on how the
vehicle is driven.
Every time your tires are rotated that is about every six months, the brake pads should be checked
whether you take professional help for maintenance or do it by yourself, it is a good idea to check the
car’s manual or talk to a professional technician .
How to check the brakes –
Brake pads are designed in such a way that they show clear signals that they need to be checked and
replaced.
Here are a few steps as to how you can check the brakes .
1. Notice the warning lights – If the brake warning lights come on while driving ,you may be running low
on brake fluid hence get them checked as soon as possible.
2 . check the brake pedal and steering wheel – When brake pads are worn out ,you can feel vibrations
in the brake pedal or steering wheel while braking .This may also show signs of brake pad issues .
Keeping your brakes in check and replacing them when necessary is simply another step forward
towards your road safety .
3 . Listen to the brake sound – If the brake pads are causing sounds like metal scraping on the wheels
while the car is moving , then this may be early warning signals that they need to be changed. As the
sounds get louder you need to understand that the condition of the brakes are getting worse.
4 . Check the wheels – Accumulation of brake dust on the wheel is a normal thing but if the wheels are
found visibly dirtier or cleaner than usual , you may need to check them or get them checked.
5. Give a look at the brake pads – Many brake pads can be seen through the wheels. Check for the
thickness and if they seem very thin then replace them.
When to replace brake pads –
According to Cars.com, some common indications which tells that your brakes are needed to be
replaced are-
1. When you see that the stopping distance is longer than it usually should be .
2. If your foot is going down further than it usually goes while you are pressing the brake pedal.
3. If there are recognizable pulsation and vibration in the brake pedal.
4. If the vehicle is pulling to one side while you brake.