10 Early Warning Signs You Need New Brakes

Your car’s brakes are one of its most important safety features. They work hard to stop your vehicle when you need it to. Over time, brake pads wear down and they need to be replaced.

Ignoring the signs of worn brake pads can be dangerous. But how do you exactly know when it’s time for new brake pads?

Let’s take a look at some common signs. This blog will help you understand the signals your car is sending. And when it’s time to visit All Aspects Motors for a brake check.

How Long Do Brake Pads Usually Last?

Estimated lifetime of brake pads under various driving conditions.

Table: Average Life of Brake Pads

Note: These are general estimates. The average lifespan of a set of brake pads is between 25,000 and 65,000 miles.

However, actual brake pad life can vary depending on several factors

1. The Type Of Car You Drive: Heavier cars put more strain on the brakes than lighter cars.
2. The Quality Of Your Brake Pads: Higher-quality brake pads will typically last longer than lower-quality brake pads.
3. Your Driving Style: If you tend to brake hard or come to a lot of sudden stops, you will wear out your brake pads more quickly.
4. Terrain Affects Brake Pad Wear: Frequent stops & starts, steep inclines & declines, rough & uneven terrain, mud, & water subject brake pads to extreme conditions, causing accelerated wear.

Brake Pad Thickness

Brake pad thickness is a serious indicator of your car’s braking performance and safety.

New brake pads typically have a thickness of around 10-12mm.

As you use your brakes. Friction wears down the brake pads, gradually reducing their thickness. Once they reach a certain minimum thinness. Usually around 3-4mm, it’s time to replace them.

Common Brake Pads Problems | 10 Warning Signs

Several signs can indicate that it’s time to replace your brake pads. Here are some common signs.

1. Squeaking or Screeching Noise

One of the earliest signs of worn brake pads is a high-pitched squealing or screeching noise when you apply the brakes. This noise comes from a small metal piece built into the brake pad.

It’s designed to make noise as a warning. when the brake pad gets very thin. If you hear this sound. It’s time to check on your brake pads.

2. Grinding Noise

If you hear a grinding noise when you brake. This is a major red flag. A grinding noise means your brake pads are worn down. And the metal parts of the brake system are rubbing together.

This can cause serious damage and is very dangerous. This damages the disc and other parts of your braking system.

Don’t ignore this sound. If you hear grinding. Change your brake pads immediately.

3. Pulsing or Vibrating Pedal When Braking

If you feel a pulsing or vibration in the brake pedal or steering wheel when you brake. It is a sign of worn brake pads. However, it could also indicate other brake problems. It could mean your brake rotors are damaged. This is often caused by worn brake pads.

4. Dashboard Brake Warning Light

A lit-up brake warning light on your dashboard is a serious cause for concern. It indicates a problem with your braking system. Which can include worn brake pads.

The light may come on when the brake pads reach a critical wear level. But can also signal other more serious issues. Such as problems with the master cylinder, callipers, or other brake components.

5. Burning Smell

A burning smell emanating from your brakes is a serious warning sign. It shouldn’t be ignored.

This often indicates excessive heat build-up. Which can be caused by various factors, including worn brake pads. Thin brake pads generate more friction, leading to increased heat. Lower-quality brake pads are also more prone to overheating, even if they are new.

6. Visible Brake Pad Wear | Brake Pads Less Than ¼ Inch Thick

Visually inspecting your brake pads is a simple way to assess their condition. But it’s not always accurate.

While you might be able to see part of the brake pad through the wheel. Getting a precise measurement is difficult. But it can provide valuable insights.

Ideally, brake pads should be at least 6-7mm (¼ Inch) thick. If the brake pad material is thinner. It’s time for a replacement.

7. Longer Stopping Distances

If it feels like your car is taking longer to stop than usual. Your brake pads are worn. Worn brake pads have less friction material. Resulting in reduced braking power.

This means your car needs more distance to come to a complete stop. To compensate for reduced braking power. You will apply more pressure to the brake pedal. Increasing your reaction time and potentially leading to accidents.

New brake pads provide optimal friction, ensuring shorter stopping distances and better overall vehicle control.

8. Car Pulling to One Side

If your car pulls to the left or right when you apply the brakes. It’s a clear indication of uneven brake pad wear or a problem with your braking system.

When brake pads wear at different rates on each side. It can cause the car to pull in the direction of the brake with less friction. Ignoring a pulling car when braking can lead to accidents. And further damage to your vehicle.

9. Soft/Spongy Brake Pedal

A soft or spongy brake pedal is a serious issue that should never be ignored. It indicates a problem with your braking system. A soft or spongy brake pedal means you have less stopping power. This is extremely dangerous and requires immediate attention from a qualified mechanic.

Don’t ignore this symptom. Driving with a soft brake pedal is like driving without a safety net.

Remember! A firm brake pedal is essential for safe driving. If you notice any changes in your brake pedals feel. Have your brakes inspected immediately.

10. Intermittent Screeching

An intermittent, high-pitched screech when braking is a sign of worn brake pads. However, it’s essential to understand that other factors can also cause this noise.

As brake pads wear down. The metal wear indicator comes into contact with the rotor. Producing a high-pitched screech.

If the screech is consistent and accompanied by other signs like pulling to one side. It indicates a sticking calliper. Which causes uneven brake pad wear.

What to Do Next | Don’t Ignore the Signs

If you notice any of these signs. It’s important to look for brake repair services and have your brakes inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.

Ignoring these warning signs can lead to more serious and expensive problems. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your car’s brakes.

Remember: Your car’s brakes are crucial for your safety. Don’t ignore the signs. Listen to your car. And get your brakes checked regularly.

Brake Pad Wear | Urban Driving | Highway Driving | Towing

Urban driving with lots of stop-and-go traffic is the hardest on brakes. While highway driving is the easiest.

If you’re a heavy-footed driver or live in an area with a lot of hills. You can expect your brake pads to wear out more quickly. Conversely, if you’re a light-footed driver and live in a flat area. Your brake pads will last longer.

So, Is Towing Easier on Brakes Than Driving Empty?

Towing can significantly reduce brake pad life. Towing puts additional stress on your brakes. The extra weight increases the stopping distance. Causing your brakes to work harder.

While it’s not impossible to get more life out of your brakes while towing. It requires specific conditions like gentle braking and regular inspections.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace Brake Pads in Australia?

A complete brake repair (4 Wheel Brakes Cost), including pads, rotors, and calliper replacement, typically costs between $300 and $800. However, depending on your vehicle, it can easily exceed $1,000.

It’s always a good idea to get quotes from a few different mechanics before making a decision.

Brake Pad Replacement Price List

By Vehicle Model

By City

All Aspects Motors: Your Brake Experts

All Aspects Motors is here to help with all your brake repair services needs. Our experienced technicians can inspect your brakes, identify any problems, and replace your brake pads if needed. We use high-quality brake pads and offer competitive prices.

Don’t let worn-out brake pads put you in a dangerous situation. Schedule a brake check today at All Aspects Motors. Your safety is our top priority.

Brake Pads FAQs

1. Do Rear Brakes Wear Faster Than the Front Brakes?

Generally, front brake pads wear out faster due to increased weight transfer during braking. But, if your car carries heavy loads regularly, rear brakes wear out quicker.

2. How Long Will 3mm Last on Brake Pads?

The answer to this question depends on several factors, including driving conditions, brake pad quality, and vehicle weight. As a general rule, you should not drive with worn brake pads for an extended period.  A cautious driver might get a few months out of them. While an aggressive driver might only get a week.

3. At What Stage Should Brake Pads Be Replaced?

Brake pads should be replaced before they wear down completely to prevent damage to the rotors. Most mechanics recommend replacing brake pads when they have about 3-4mm of material left.

4. What is Wrong When Brake Pedal Goes to the Floor?

If your brake pedal goes to the floor, it’s a serious issue. This could indicate a loss of brake fluid, a problem with the master cylinder, or a leak in the brake system. You should never drive a car with a brake pedal that goes to the floor.