A brake system is made up of a number of different parts including brake pads and discs, calipers and fluids; all of which play their own important roles in slowing your vehicle down and bringing it safely to a stop.
Therefore, when it comes to checking the condition of your brakes, you’ll need to keep an eye on these essential components. If you notice a difference in the way your car is performing, the most common solution could be that your brake pads and discs need replacing.
However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to know which type of brake pad to choose and spot the warning signs that your pads might be in need of replacing. We’ve put together this quick guide to help you select the right brake pads for your vehicle and explain how to perform general maintenance of your brakes to keep them running for longer.
What Are Brake Discs
Brake discs are attached to the wheel and provide the resistance required to slow or stop your car through the brake calipers squeezing the brake pads against the disc.
What Are Brake Pads
Brake pads are ceramic, metallic or organic blocks attached to the brake caliper to supply the friction the discs need to stop your wheels.
Signs You Need New Brake Pads
There are several indications that your car may require new brake pads. If you spot any of the following, it may mean your brake pads need replacing:
Pulsating Brake Pedal
If you feel a strange vibration when you depress the brake pedal, it may be a sign that your brake pads are worn out or have warped in the heat generated by the friction used to slow or stop the vehicle.
Clicking Sounds From The Brakes
When you apply your brakes, listen out for a clicking or rattling sound. If this happens, it means that your car requires new brake pads.
Screeching or Squealing Noise From The Brakes
Similarly, if your brakes start to sound screechy when fully depressed (and you can hear them when the windows are closed), you may require new pads. If the noise occurs frequently, you should look into replacing your brakes as soon as possible.
Grinding Sound From The Brakes
If you apply the brakes and hear a grinding or growling noise, this indicates that you may need to replace the rotors as well as the brake pads. The noise is due to the brake pads being fully worn down, causing the metal disc and the calliper to rub together which can cause further, more extreme damage to the brakes.
Brake Pads Are Too Thin
In addition to noises, there are visual indications to watch out for too. You can check the thickness of your brake pads by looking through your car’s wheel spokes. If you can see less than a quarter of the brake pad, you’ll need to replace it.
How To Maintain Brake Pads & Discs
If your brakes are maintained properly, you will reduce the need to look out for warning signs and get better performance out of your car as a result. So what should you do?
Check Your Disc Brakes Regularly
By checking your disc brakes (or rotors) regularly for signs of damage, you’ll quickly spot whether or not they need to be replaced before it’s too late. To do this, you’ll need to remove the tyre – look out for signs of uneven wear, rusting or scoring.
Check The Brake Calliper And Brake Pads
Before replacing your tyre, gently shake the brake calliper to make sure it is securely in place. Brake pads that are looking too thin will need to be replaced. If you can see the metal showing through then you may also have to replace the brake disc.
Regularly Replace Brake Fluid
Your brake fluid reservoir is found under the car bonnet, usually towards the back on the driver’s side. It has clear markings on the side to indicate where the fluid level should be.
To add more brake fluid, clean the area around the cap, lift it and slowly pour the fluid in until it reaches the optimum level. Replace the cap and check the level again in a few days just to ensure that there are no leaks in the system.
How To Choose The Right Brake Pads And Discs
At CarParts4Less, you’ll find a great selection of brake pads from leading brands and manufacturers. To find compatible parts, enter your registration in the tool and it will show suitable parts for your car’s make & model. No matter your budget, we have a wide range of brake parts from reputable manufacturers including Eicher, PAGID, Bosch and Brembo.
With free standard delivery and next day delivery available on many of our products, you can get your car parts in no time at CarParts4Less.