Brake Repair-The Right Time For Brake Pads

A healthy braking system can mean all the difference when it comes to the safe operation of a vehicle. Therefore, a responsible vehicle owner should have their brakes checked often, even when there are no obvious danger signs. However, only a select few car owners will follow through with this type of diligent maintenance care, while most drivers will forget about the need for brake repair and maintenance it is too late. Luckily, there are a few basic maintenance techniques and tips that can help keep the brakes healthy and ready for anything. 

Brake pad replacement is one of the most common brake repair issues. The pads are made of a wearable ceramic material and placed on the calipers to create friction with the rotors. This friction created by the brake pads against the rotors then slows the momentum of the wheels, eventually stopping the vehicle. This process is most efficient when the brake pads are fairly new because they can easily create more friction with the rotors. Consequently, this process will become a little more difficult as the pads begin to wear thin. Typically, this is noticeable in the everyday operation of the vehicle because it may take longer for the vehicle to stop or it might take extra pressure on the pedal to stop.

Additionally, the brake pads come with a metal indicator tab that will rub against the metal of the rotors once the pads have become too thin; this friction between the tab and rotors will then create an obvious squealing sound. Although it is best to have the vehicle serviced before this happens, it is the first warning sign that the vehicle is definitely not safe to operate until there is some brake repair. Furthermore, the indicator tab can warp and scratch the rotors beyond repair if repairs are not made immediately. As a result, a repair that may have only cost about $200 can easily double if the rotors must be resurfaced or completely replaced. Luckily, these parts are designed to last for at least 25,000 miles, so this type of repair is infrequent. 

Since most vehicle owners are not experts in brake repair, it is best to have the car serviced by an auto mechanic to be sure the vehicle is safe to operate. Fortunately, many repair shops will offer a visual brake check, even if the car is being serviced for something different.