4 ways to identify worn car brake pads
(Baonghean.vn) - Brake pads for cars are equipped with the function of ensuring safety and stability when the car starts rolling. At the same time, it helps the car avoid collisions and sudden braking in unexpected situations when traveling on the road. Therefore, knowing when to replace brake pads is extremely necessary in your driving knowledge.
1. Unusual noise
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Good drivers rely on good hand-eye coordination. It is also important to use your ears to listen for unusual noises coming from your car. Squealing, grinding, etc. when braking are clear signs that your brake pads are worn and need to be replaced without delay.
2. The car swerves to either side when braking.
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When braking, if you feel a pulling force that causes the car to turn left or right abnormally, or if the car jerks when you stop, you should have your brakes checked immediately.
3. Sensations in the legs
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Besides the noise, another sign is that the brakes will not work as usual, the braking distance will also increase. Then you will find it more difficult to control the car, especially when moving at high speed and suddenly have to stop the car because of an obstacle. At that time, the brake pedal may not work well even though it is almost touching the floor.
You may also feel a light pedal, the pedal travel seems to be greater than normal...It's time to replace the brake pads.
4. Wear sensor
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There are two types of sensors:
- The brake pads on the car have a steel plate attached to help dissipate heat. When the brake pads wear out, they will come into contact with the caliper and brake disc, causing noise.
- The brake pads on the vehicle have sensors attached to them that when the brake pads wear out, they will come into contact with the caliper and brake disc, causing the brake wear indicator light on the dashboard to turn on. Please refer to the vehicle owner's manual to increase awareness of related issues.
When should you replace your car brake pads?
- According to auto experts, the vehicle's brake system should be checked in conjunction with an oil change; when the thickness of the brake pads is only 2 - 3mm, they should be replaced. Because the thickness of the brake pads decreases, the friction force decreases; the decrease in friction will lead to less effective braking, which can be dangerous when braking to decelerate or brake suddenly in emergency situations.
- When replacing brake pads, only replace both. If you only replace one side, it will cause uneven wear. The brake disc should be re-smoothed after replacing the brake pads.