What are the Signs of Worn Brake Pads & Rotors?
If there is one system in your vehicle that cannot be overlooked, it would be the braking system. If your vehicle fails to stop when and where you expect it to, then an accident may be just minutes away. Properly working brakes is an absolute must and drivers must be aware when brakes begin to fail or lose their effectiveness. Don’t procrastinate when it comes to a needed brake replacement.
Here are Some General Signs of Worn Brake Pads and Rotors:
- First, check for wear by looking at your brake pads through the spaces between the wheel's spokes. The outside pad will be pressed against a metal rotor. Generally, there should be at least 1/4 inch of the pad.
- Secondly, listen for a high-pitched screeching sound while braking. There is an audible indicator, which gives a warning when brake pads need to replace.
- Thirdly, if your brakes are not as responsive as they used to be, or if the pedal "sinks" toward the floor, this could be an indication of a brake fluid or an air hose leak. A loss of brake fluid will typically leave a small puddle of fluid when the car is parked and looks and feels similar to motor oil.
- Fourthly, if your vehicle "pulls" to one side while braking, it may indicate that the brake linings are wearing unevenly or that there is foreign matter in the brake fluid. The brakes may need an adjustment, or the fluid drained and replaced.
- Fifthly, a grinding or growling noise is typically one of the signs of worn brake pads, most likely beyond repair. This is caused by the two pieces of metal rubbing together. This can "score," or scratch your brake rotors, creating an uneven surface.
- Lastly, if you feel a pulsation when applying the brakes it could be the sign of warped brake rotors. Warping happens when the brakes are applied for an extended period of time.
If your vehicle is experiencing any of the above symptoms, call your auto shop as soon as possible to schedule an inspection so you know what kind of brake repair or replacement is needed.
Worried about the signs of worn brake pads and brake rotors? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about our brake replacement services and to schedule an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
If there is one system in your vehicle that cannot be overlooked, it would be the braking system. If your vehicle fails to stop when and where you expect it to, then an accident may be just minutes away. Properly working brakes is an absolute must and drivers must be aware when brakes begin to fail or lose their effectiveness. Don’t procrastinate when it comes to a needed brake replacement.
Here are Some General Signs of Worn Brake Pads and Rotors:
- First, check for wear by looking at your brake pads through the spaces between the wheel's spokes. The outside pad will be pressed against a metal rotor. Generally, there should be at least 1/4 inch of the pad.
- Secondly, listen for a high-pitched screeching sound while braking. There is an audible indicator, which gives a warning when brake pads need to replace.
- Thirdly, if your brakes are not as responsive as they used to be, or if the pedal "sinks" toward the floor, this could be an indication of a brake fluid or an air hose leak. A loss of brake fluid will typically leave a small puddle of fluid when the car is parked and looks and feels similar to motor oil.
- Fourthly, if your vehicle "pulls" to one side while braking, it may indicate that the brake linings are wearing unevenly or that there is foreign matter in the brake fluid. The brakes may need an adjustment, or the fluid drained and replaced.
- Fifthly, a grinding or growling noise is typically one of the signs of worn brake pads, most likely beyond repair. This is caused by the two pieces of metal rubbing together. This can "score," or scratch your brake rotors, creating an uneven surface.
- Lastly, if you feel a pulsation when applying the brakes it could be the sign of warped brake rotors. Warping happens when the brakes are applied for an extended period of time.
If your vehicle is experiencing any of the above symptoms, call your auto shop as soon as possible to schedule an inspection so you know what kind of brake repair or replacement is needed.
Worried about the signs of worn brake pads and brake rotors? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about our brake replacement services and to schedule an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
