How To Check Brake Pads

You may not always think about it, but you rely on your brake pads every time you press down on the brake pedal. It is worth mentioning that adequately functioning brakes are essential for your overall safety.

Photo Credit: images.cars.com

If your brake pads are thin and worn out, you wouldn't be able to stop your car at the right moment. Ensure your vehicle's safety by checking the brake pads once in a while. To be precise, a car with good brakes augments the safety of the occupants as well as the pedestrians. With these things in mind, let's take a glance at the top ways to check your vehicle's brake pads.

Inspecting the Brake Pads of your Vehicle

It is essential to inspect the brake pads of your vehicle from time to time to ascertain its health. With your car dry and the engines turned off, peek through the wheel spokes to inspect the brake pads.

Note that if any of the brake pads are less than a quarter-inch thick, you should replace the brake pads as soon as possible.

Photo Credit: www.gregs.com

Moreover, inspect your car's brake pads for excessive rust. Excessive rust can cause the separation of the friction material from the backing plate. The separation of the backing plate is responsible for all types of noises and vibrations when pressing down the brake pedal.

Removing the Tires to inspect the Brake Pad

If you are unable to see the brake pad through the wheel, it is better to remove the tires to inspect them. Make sure that your vehicle is located on a level surface. Moreover, the parking brake should be activated to ensure your overall safety.

Photo Credit: hips.hearstapp.com

Place the jack under the vehicle's frame next to the tire you want to remove. You should elevate your vehicle about 6-inches off the ground. Unscrew the nuts to remove the wheel from the axle. After removing the tire, you will have a good view of the brake pad along with components like the rotor, caliper, etc. If the brake pad is too thin, it is high time to consult a mechanic.

Listen to what the Brakes of your Car are telling you

Undoubtedly, visually inspecting the brakes is an obvious way to determine their current health and thickness. However, you should also check the brakes of your vehicle by listening to what sounds they emit.

Usually, a worn-out brake pad makes a squealing sound when you press down on the brake pedal. However, brake pads also emit these types of sounds when wet. So, before consulting a mechanic, you should check whether the brakes of your car are emitting the same sound during normal conditions. There is another noise that brakes create: if you hear a low rumbling noise, take your vehicle to a workshop as soon as possible.

Nowadays, a majority of car owners opt for galvanized brakes to increase the durability of the brake pads. Unlike traditional brakes, galvanized brakes don't use paint on the backing plates. In usual cases, galvanized brakes rely on a particular type of zinc coating. Always inspect the brake pads of your car thoroughly. This can ensure the overall safety of your vehicle.