Brake Pad Replacement

WHY ARE BRAKE PADS IMPORTANT?

Brake Pads are crucial for your vehicle’s braking system; the brake pads sit between the brake caliper or shoe and the brake drum or rotor. The brake shoe or caliper clamps the brake pads against the brake drum or rotor to create the resistance that is causing your vehicle to slow down and stop. Without brake pads at peak performance, the other components of the brake system will wear out faster including the calipers and rotors. By maintaining Brake Pads according to the recommended change interval outlined in the owner’s manual, you will avoid costly repairs and unsafe driving conditions.

INDICATOR LIGHTS

Some newer-model vehicles are equipped with a warning light that signals on the dashboard when it is time to schedule Brake Pad Replacement Service. You can check in the owner’s manual to know if your vehicle is equipped with the brake pad indicator light system. If that light comes on, we invite you to get your next Brake Pad Replacement Service at Tom Smith Chevrolet Buick GMC in Midland. Tom Smith Chevrolet Buick GMC is conveniently located in Midland near Penetanguishene and Port McNicoll.

When should I replace my Brake Pads?

Every time you push the brake pedal to slow down or stop, the brake pads are working hard creating resistance against the brake drum or rotor. In general, brake pads will last between 30,000 and 35,000 miles; however, every vehicle is different because they all face different driving preferences and road conditions. Brake pads are purposefully designed to wear down as to not cause damage to the drums or rotors. This design demands diligence to the maintenance schedule to ensure reliable brake system performance. Although it is the best strategy to replace brake pads at the recommended maintenance interval, it is also smart to monitor your vehicle’s brake system performance looking for any of the warning signs of defective brake pads.

Here are the most common warning signs related to faulty brake pads that need to be replaced:

• Screeching or squealing noises
• Brake pads less than 1/4 inch
• Metallic grinding or growling sound
• Brake system warning light is on