Many people don’t realize that the condition of your car’s brake pads and rotors can affect your safety. Not only can badly worn brake pads result in lower fuel efficiency, but they can also be dangerous.

When drivers notice something wrong with their brakes, it’s usually the pads themselves that have become deformed. But if you’re a long-term vehicle user, you may have forgotten about your brake pads.

Even if your brake pads are still in good shape, getting them replaced and cleaned regularly is an important part of car maintenance. But how often should you take care of your brake pads and rotors? 

Find everything you need to know about how to inspect your brake pads and rotors in this article!

1. You Hear Squealing or Grinding Noises When You Apply the Brakes

If you hear squealing, the brake pads are getting close to the end of their life. If you’re hearing grinding, the brake pads are completely worn out, and you’re starting to damage the rotors.

In either case, it’s important to get the brakes checked and replaced as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your car safe to drive.

2. Your Brake Pads and Rotors Feels Spongy or Sunken

If your brake pads and rotors feel spongy or hollow, it’s a sign you need to replace them. Worn brake pads and rotors can cause your brakes to feel less responsive, and it takes longer to stop.

If you notice any changes in how your brakes feel, have them inspected by a qualified mechanic.

3. You Notice Decreased Braking Performance

If you notice decreased braking performance, it could be a sign that your brake pads and rotors are worn down. If you’ve driven your vehicle for a while, it’s not uncommon for these parts to wear out and need to be replaced.

If you’re unsure if this is the issue, you can always consult a mechanic to give you a brake repair service

4. Your Car Pulls to One Side When You Brake

If your car pulls to one side when you brake, it could signify that you need new breaks. Worn brake pads and rotors can cause your car to pull to one side when you brake, so it’s important to check them regularly and replace brake pads if necessary.

If you’re unsure how to check your brake pads and rotors, you can take your car to a mechanic or a dealership, and they can check them for you.

5. You See Brake Fluid Leaking From Your Car

If you see brake fluid leaking from your car, that is a sign that you need new brake pads. A worn out breaks and rotors can be a serious safety issue, leading to them not working properly.

If you see brake fluid leaking, you should take your car to a mechanic to have it checked out.

Avoiding Accidents For Your Family!

The importance of checking brake pads and rotors cannot be understated. Brake pads and rotors allow your car to stop, and if they are not in good condition, your car will not be able to stop as effectively.

Additionally, if your brake pads and rotors are not in good condition, it can cause your car to vibrate when you brake, which is extremely unsafe.

Therefore, it is extremely important to make sure that you check your brake pads and rotors regularly and replace them if they are not in good condition. So don’t wait. Bring your car in for a brake check today!

Check out our other automotive blog posts if you found this article useful.