Brakes play a vital role in our ability to stay safe while driving a car. To keep your vehicle’s brakes in working order, you need to ensure your brake pads, which create the friction necessary to stop your car, are in the proper condition. Brake pads under ¼ of an inch thick will have difficulty coming to a quick stop. In this blog, we’ll look at how to check the thickness of your pads so that you can replace them before they get too thin.
Look for Visual Signs of Wear
Before inspecting your brake pads, make sure your vehicle has been off for at least an hour. Otherwise, your brakes may be hot enough to cause burns. On some vehicles, your pads will be visible through the front wheels of your car, whereas with others, you may need to remove the wheel. Once the pads are visible, look for signs of excessive wear, such as brake dust, and examine the thickness. If your pads seem too thin, it’s time to make an appointment with a mechanic.
Check the Brake Pad Wear Indicator
Some brake pads may have a wear indicator. This metal indicator, or “squealer” as some call it, is in the center or on the side of your pads. As the pads wear down, the metal will stick out, causing it to “squeal” as it grinds against your brake rotors. If you hear a grinding sound or see the indicators protruding, it’s time for new brake pads.
See a Professional
For the most accurate reading of your pad thickness, you should see an automotive maintenance professional. Mechanics use air gages, which are extremely precise tools, to get accurate readings on the size of your pads. Air gages see use in a variety of contexts in the automotive industry because of their usefulness and accuracy. Going to a professional can alleviate anxiety surrounding checking your pads, as they have years of experience and professional-grade tools to give you a correct reading. Plus, they can help you replace your brake pads if needed.
Keeping up with routine car maintenance is critical to staying safe on the road. Now that you know how to check the thickness of your pads, you can catch worn-down brakes before they become a safety hazard. If you notice your pads thinning, don’t put off replacing them! The inconvenience of replacing your brake pads is never worth the danger of faulty brakes.
Caring for your vehicle isn’t the easiest task because of the many factors to consider, but you can prolong the life of your car in many ways. Read on to learn the best ways to take care of your vehicle, improve its longevity, and use it for many more years than expected. Ways To Prolong the Life of Your Vehicle
