Brake pads are pivotal in a vehicle's ability to stop safely. For some drivers, a sudden inability to stop quickly serves as their first indication that there is an issue. However, warning signs often occur well before this safety hazard is displayed. All vehicle owners must recognize when their brake pads need to be replaced before they fail.
Age
Brake pads are no different from tires or engine oil in that they typically have a mileage-driven lifespan. Depending on your typical driving habits, such as how often you drive on the highway or the quality of the pads, this part can last for tens of thousands of miles.
Once you familiarize yourself with your mileage range and you know you have reached this threshold, it does not matter if you are not experiencing any issues; you should have the pads replaced. If you do not have this information, you can also stop at an auto repair shop to have your pads inspected to determine how much life they have left in them.
Vibration
Pay attention to what happens when you apply your brakes. When your brake pads are in good condition, the transition from moving to stopping should be smooth. If you notice vibration or pulsations as you stop, this is also indicative of worn pads.
Keep in mind that this issue can occur well before the age limit has been reached. An issue with the rotor can also cause uneven clamping of the pads, leading to this issue. You will eventually need to repair the rotor and the pads if ignored.
Uneven Stop
In addition to a smooth transition to stop, your vehicle should not sway to one side as you decelerate. For example, a vehicle that sways to the right when stopping could indicate uneven wear. In this case, it means that the brake pads on one side are more worn than the other.
In addition to failing to replace both sides of the pads at the same time, an issue with the other brake components, such as the rotors or caliper, could be to blame. Again, you need to have the brakes inspected in this case while also having the pads replaced.
Whether you recognize these issues or just have a concern about the condition of your brake pads, do not hesitate to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop for a brake inspection and any necessary repairs.
