Vehicles use either disc brakes or drums brakes to slow down and stop completely. Both of these systems rely on pressing a friction pad against another component. The resulting friction and heat slows down your wheels, allowing you to control your speed and stopping power. Brake pads are routine wear items that need to be replaced periodically to keep this essential system working. Discover how much does it cost to replace brakes and signs that it’s time to replace yours.
Signs of Worn Brake Pads
Your brake pads wear down small amounts with use. Over time, this can lead to the friction pads being completely worn to the metal backing. Continuing to operate your brakes without promptly replacing them could damage your brake rotors, calipers and other costly components. Here are the most common signs that it’s time for a new set of brake pads:
- Metallic grinding noises
- Brake pad warning indicator
- Thin brake pads
- Screeching or squealing sounds
Modern vehicles have brake warning lights, which are very convenient in monitoring the thickness of your brake pads. Otherwise, you’ll need to measure the brake pad to see if it’s too thin. A pad that’s less than 1/4 inch thick has reached the end of its life and should be replaced.
Failure to replace brake pads can cause grinding, screeching or squealing noises. Continuing to drive on worn brake pads can start to affect the stopping power of your vehicle.
How To Replace Brake Pads
Whether you’re a DIY auto maintenance enthusiast or just getting started caring for your own car, replacing brake pads is surprisingly easy. All you need is a jack, jack stands, a lug wrench, socket wrench and protective gear. You may also wish to pick up a C-clamp to hold back the piston.
Start by loosening the lug nuts on a wheel and using your jack and stands to lift it from off the ground. Remove the wheel completely and set it to the side. You may have either a fixed or sliding caliper, so the process can vary slightly.
For sliding calipers, you’ll need to remove the sliding bolt, pivot the caliper, remove the pads and remove the retaining clip. Next, you’ll need to install and grease a new retaining clip, install new brake pads, retract the pistons and replace the caliper. Install the caliper bolt firmly before replacing the wheel.
Follow the same steps on the other side to fully replace your front or rear brakes. Your front brakes typically need to be replaced more often than the rear ones, but you’ll want to carefully monitor both sets. Test drive your brake replacement task to be sure the calipers are working correctly.
Check out AutoZone coupons and other great coupons to save money on a new set of brake pads for easy DIY maintenance. Carefully review the installation steps and shop for replacement brake pads that fit your vehicle and offer reliable protection. Inspect your brake pads today to see if it’s time to order a new set to keep your vehicle driving safely.
