Maintaining the brake system of your vehicle is essential to ensure safety on the road. Ignoring worn brake pads or discs could lead to more serious issues and compromise your ability to stop efficiently. Here are some common signs indicating it’s time to replace your brake pads or discs.
If you hear high-pitched squealing or grinding noises when braking, it’s likely that your brake pads are worn down. Modern brake pads are fitted with wear indicators designed to emit this sound as a warning. Grinding sounds could indicate that the pads are completely worn, allowing metal-to-metal contact, which can damage the brake discs.
Many modern vehicles are equipped with brake pad sensors that trigger a warning light on the dashboard when the pads are too thin. If you see this warning light, it's time to get your brake pads checked and potentially replaced.
If you feel vibrations through the brake pedal when slowing down, this could be a sign that your brake discs are warped. Warped discs can occur due to overheating from excessive braking or aggressive driving. In such cases, the discs may need to be replaced to restore smooth braking.
You can visually check your brake pads through the wheel spokes. If the pads are less than 3mm thick, it’s time to replace them. Also, if your brake discs have deep grooves or are visibly worn, they may need resurfacing or replacement.
If your car pulls to one side when braking, it could indicate uneven wear on your brake pads or issues with your brake discs. This imbalance can affect your control over the vehicle and should be addressed immediately.
If your vehicle isn’t stopping as quickly or efficiently as it used to, it may be time for new brake pads or discs. Worn components reduce the stopping power of your vehicle, increasing the risk of accidents, particularly in emergency situations.
In the UK, it is illegal to drive with brake pads worn below 1.5mm, as it can significantly reduce braking efficiency and lead to accidents. Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, drivers are required to maintain their vehicles, including the brake system, to a safe standard. Failure to do so can result in fines, points on your licence, or even prosecution if found negligent after an accident.
Brake components should also be checked during your regular MOT test. If your vehicle’s brakes fail to meet the required standards, your car will not pass the MOT, and you won’t be allowed to drive it legally on UK roads.
Typically, brake pads should be replaced every 30,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and your style of driving. Brake discs tend to last longer, but they should be checked for wear regularly and replaced when necessary.
At East Midlands Vehicle Servicing, we provide expert brake inspections and replacements using quality parts. If you’re experiencing any of these signs or simply want peace of mind, contact us today for a free brake check. We’ll make sure your car is safe and ready for the road.