Brake pads are essential components of any vehicle’s braking system. That’s why keeping them in good working order is essential for everyone’s safety.
The good news is that the car will probably show little signs when the pads are coming to the end of their useful life, making it easier to diagnose and replace them.
Read on and find out what important and common signs you need to look out for to know it’s time to change your brake pads.
What Are Brake Pads?
Located between the caliper and the brake disk, the brake pads are made of friction materials that ensure the friction needed to slow down the vehicle.
Whenever the driver presses the brake pedal, the pads meet the disk, reducing the rotation of the wheels.
They are available in different materials, such as organic, ceramic and metallic, each with specific characteristics in terms of performance and durability.
What Is The Function Of Brake Pads?
The main function of brake pads is to create friction against the brake discs, allowing the vehicle to slow down or stop.
When the brake pedal is pressed, the pads are compressed against the disk, converting the kinetic energy of the movement into heat, which reduces the speed of the wheels. This process ensures controlled and efficient braking, which is essential for driving safety.
In addition to slowing down, brake pads also help maintain vehicle stability during braking, especially in emergencies.
What Are The Differences Between Disc Brakes And Drum Brakes?
The two most common types of brakes in passenger cars are drum brakes and disc brakes.
Both use friction to reduce the vehicle’s speed, but there are some differences between them.
Find out what they are below.
Disc Brakes
In a disc brake system, the brake disc rotates together with the wheel and the brake caliper is fixed to the suspension.
When you press the brake pedal, the brake fluid activates the pumps. In turn, the brake pads are pushed against the disk, forcing it to lose speed through friction.
Drum Brakes
The drum brake system consists of the drum, pads and cylinders.
In this system, the actuation of the brake pedal causes the brake fluids to press the cylinders and pads against the drum.
In this type of brake, the drum and wheel rotate together and the cylinders are fixed.
For effective braking on drum brakes, the system must be watertight, allowing no foreign elements to enter.
Organic, Metallic Or Ceramic Brake Pads: What’s The Difference?
The three main types of brake pad on the market are organic, metallic and ceramic.
Each offers different characteristics in terms of performance, durability and cost. The ideal choice depends on the driver’s needs and the type of vehicle.
Below are the main differences between them:
1. Organic Brake Pads
They are made from materials such as rubber, glass and resins.
As a rule, they are smoother and quieter, making them ideal for urban driving. However, they wear out faster and produce more dust.
2. Metal Brake Pads
With a composition of metals such as copper and iron, they are extremely durable.
They work well in high-temperature conditions, ideal for heavy vehicles. However, they are noisier and cause greater wear on the discs.
3. Ceramic Brake Pads
Made of ceramic and metal fibers, they offer high durability. They produce less dust and provide smooth braking.
They are more expensive, but have a longer service life and are more consistent.
How Long Do Brake Pads Normally Last?
Brake pads can vary depending on driving conditions and styles and vehicles, as well as the use made of the braking system.
How Do I Know If My Brake Pads Are Worn Out?
The main signs that may indicate the need to change the brake pads are:
1. Warning Light On Or Flashing
If a warning light appears on your car’s dashboard, it’s one of the first signs that you need to replace the fault. Even if it is intermittent, it should not be ignored.
2. High-Pitched Brake Noise
A high-pitched sound coming from the brakes is common when the pads are excessively worn.
3. Crunching Sound When Braking
If you hear a grinding sound when you press the brake pedal, this indicates that the brake pads are very worn.
Many pads have metal indicators that produce this sound to warn of wear.
4. Vibration When Braking
If you feel vibration when braking, it is possible that the brake discs are warped, causing uneven wear on the pads.
5. Increased Braking Distance
If the car takes longer to stop, this could mean worn brake pads.
6. Thin Brake Pads
A visual inspection of the brake pads can help.
If they appear to be less than 1-1.5 mm thick, they probably need replacing.
7. Altered Brake Pedal Pressure
A change in pedal pressure, making it “softer” when braking, can indicate wear on the pads.
8. Brake Pedal Vibrates Or Pulsates
When the pedal vibrates when pressed, it means that there is irregular wear on the brake pads or discs.
9. Unequal Braking
If the car swerves to one side when braking, this could be a sign of uneven wear on the brake pads. It is essential to check the entire braking system.
10. Wheels Lock, Even With Abs
Badly worn brake pads can cause the wheels to lock up, even on vehicles with an ABS system. This is a clear indicator that it’s time to replace the pads.
How Often Should Brake Pads Be Replaced?
Brake pads should be replaced when they show signs of wear or when they reach the recommended mileage limit.
Failure to do so could affect the overall performance of your car.
What Happens If You Don’t Replace Your Brake Pads?
If the brake pads are not replaced in time, various problems can occur that directly affect the safety and performance of the vehicle, such as:
- Damage to brake discs;
- Loss of braking efficiency;
- Increased risk of road accidents;
- Wear on other components of the braking system.
Can Worn Brake Pads Increase Fuel Consumption?
Yes, worn brake pads can increase fuel consumption.
When the pads are worn, the braking system works less efficiently, requiring more effort from the engine.
This extra effort can lead to higher fuel consumption, especially when driving frequently in urban traffic.
Can I Replace Brake Pads Myself?
Changing brake pads can be a simple process, as long as you follow the right steps.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to doing it easily and safely:
- Gather the necessary tools;
- Park the car on a level surface, turn off the engine and pull the handbrake;
- Use the hydraulic jack to lift the car and remove the wheel where you are going to change the brake pads;
- Remove the brake caliper;
- Remove the old pads;
- Install the new pads;
- Replace the brake caliper on the disk and tighten the screws securing it;
- Refit the wheel. Then lower the car with the jack;
- Before driving, press the brake pedal several times to adjust the new brake pads and make sure the system is working properly.
What Tools Do I Need To Change My Brake Pads?
To change the brake pads, you will need the following tools:
- Hydraulic jack: to lift the car and gain access to the wheels;
- Support stands: to ensure the safety and stability of the vehicle while working;
- Wheel wrench: to remove the wheel nuts;
- Brake repositioner;
- Protective gloves: to avoid contact with dirt and lubricants;
- Brake cleaning spray: to clean the area around the calipers and discs;
- Set of new brake pads: the right replacement parts for your vehicle model.
How Much Are The Brake Pads?
The price of brake pads for motorcycles or cars ranges from tens to several hundred euros.
When buying this component, you should consider which axle you are buying for, as the brake pads on the front axle are different from those used on the rear axle of the car.
How Much Brake Pads Change Cost?
The price of changing brake pads can range from tens to hundreds of euros, depending on the quality of the component and the vehicle in question.
Bear in mind that this figure includes the price of the brake pads and the mechanic’s labor.
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