When Should Brake Pads And Rotors Be Replaced?

On average, brake pads should be replaced every 25,000 to 65,000 miles, while rotors should usually be replaced anywhere between 30,000 and 70,000 miles. However, the exact number may vary depending on driving conditions and style. The good news is that when your brake pads are nearing the end of their life, you may experience some minor symptoms that make diagnosis and repair easy. Not sure if it's time to replace your brake pads or discs? Here are 6 common signs that it's time for new brake pads and linings

1. Squealing or screeching noises from the brakes

If your brake pads are nearing the end of their life, the first symptom you'll start to notice is a squealing or screeching sound from your brakes. Squeaking brake pads are usually caused by excessively worn brake pads. Once your brake pads wear down to a certain point you will start to hear a grinding sound, at which point you will also start to damage your rotors, making repairs more expensive.

2. Grinding sound when braking

As mentioned above, if you hear a grinding sound when you press the brake pedal, you need to replace your brake pads as soon as possible. Some brake pads have built-in metal wear indicators that can make a loud noise to alert you that it's time to replace your pads. If you let the brake pads continue to grind, you will face greater damage and higher repair costs.

3. Vibration during braking

Vibration when you apply the brakes is another sign that your vehicle's braking system needs professional help. Your rotors are likely to buckle and cause uneven wear on the brake pads at the same time.

4. Stopping for longer

Another major sign that your brakes need to be checked is a drop in performance when braking. If you are experiencing unsatisfactory stopping times when you apply the brakes, this could mean that your brake pads are completely worn or that you are running low on brake fluid (usually due to a leak). To really understand what is happening to your brakes, you need to get to a brake mechanic as soon as possible to ensure you don't lose all your braking ability.

5. Brake pad indicator light comes on

Most modern vehicles come with a brake warning light that appears on the dashboard. One is an anti-lock braking system (ABS) light and the other is a brake system warning light. Your brake light will not always come on when there is a problem - it is also the light that appears on the dashboard when the parking brake is engaged. However, if you see the brake warning light and your parking brake is not engaged, it's time to have your system checked by a brake specialist to diagnose your problem.

6. Your brake pads look thin

One way to easily check your brake pads is to visually inspect them for wear. To do this, look between the spokes of the wheel and find the brake pad. If it appears to be less than ¼ inch or 6.4 mm thick, you may need a new set of pads.

Experiencing brake problems?

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, let our expert brake technicians provide a diagnosis. Get a free brake repair estimate or contact us to discuss the problem you're experiencing!