When To Change Brake Pads

Your vehicle's brakes constitute a critical component, and maintaining them in excellent condition is a practice all drivers should embrace. Now, brake pads are equally crucial because they contribute significantly to the smooth performance of the brakes.

Here at Ourisman Tri-State Ford, near Rising Sun, North East, and Havre de Grace, Maryland, we know that ensuring your brake pads are in optimal condition ensures the overall well-being of your braking system.

Signs that Your Brake Pads Need Changing

Recognizing the appropriate time to replace your brake pads is crucial in preventing future complex brake repairs. Some vehicles feature brake pad sensors, indicating the need for replacement by displaying a warning on the dashboard. Additionally, watch out for these signs:

  • Screeching Noises: If a screeching sound accompanies each brake application, it signals the necessity for new brake pads. Consistent screeching indicates the urgency of a replacement.
  • Metallic Grinding: Persistent screeching may escalate into a metallic grinding sound, akin to metal-on-metal contact. This unmistakable noise is a clear indicator that your brake pads require immediate replacement.

Apart from audible cues, visual inspection is beneficial. Locate the brake pads within the brake assembly, observing their connection to the brake rotor. Worn-out brake pads, with a thickness of less than seven millimeters, should prompt a thorough inspection and potential replacement. Regular monitoring of these signs ensures the timely maintenance of your braking system.

When to Change Your Brake Pads

While it's generally advisable to inspect your brake pads during each oil change, the frequency may vary based on your individual driving habits and the terrain you regularly traverse. For those frequently navigating hilly terrains, especially engaging brakes while ascending or descending, more frequent checks may be necessary.

Similarly, if you regularly navigate busy urban areas where frequent braking is the norm, it's wise to monitor your brake pads more often.

The key factor influencing inspection intervals is the usage frequency of your brakes. Tailoring your examination schedule to your specific driving conditions ensures a proactive approach to maintaining optimal brake performance.

We Have Experts for Changing Brake Pads

Rely on our team of approachable experts as your primary solution for brake repair. Our skilled professionals are proficient in:

  • Checking for even wear and measuring brake pad thickness: Our experts meticulously examine your brake components, ensuring even wear and measuring the thickness of brake pads.
  • Ensuring brake lines, master cylinder, and wheel cylinders aren't leaking: We conduct thorough inspections to identify and address any potential leaks in brake lines, master cylinders, and wheel cylinders.
  • Checking rotors for hot spots and run-outs: Our team scrutinizes brake rotors, identifying hot spots and run-outs to guarantee optimal braking performance.
  • Testing hardware and making necessary adjustments: Our experts conduct comprehensive hardware tests, making any necessary adjustments to ensure the precision of your brake system.
  • Checking brake fluid condition and levels: Brake fluid is crucial for optimal brake performance. We assess its condition and levels, addressing any issues to maintain a safe braking environment.
Is It Time to Change Your Brake Pads?

Trust our friendly and knowledgeable team at Ourisman Tri-State Ford near Rising Sun, North East, and Havre de Grace, Maryland, to provide you top-tier brake repair services, addressing a comprehensive range of elements to ensure your vehicle's braking system operates at peak efficiency.

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