Whether you’re stopping at a red traffic light or avoiding a car accident, you have your vehicle’s brake pads to thank for the safe halt. They are in charge of bringing your vehicle to a slow and controlled stop. As a result, routine brake repairs and replacements are essential to driving safely. In between regular maintenance trips to an auto repair company, use the below process to determine whether it’s time for new pads.

How to Check Your Brake Pads

Listen Carefully

Brake pads include wear indicators that are intended to make a noise when damage begins. This distinct noise sounds like metal scraping along the wheels of your moving car. As you can expect, the noise will become louder as the brakes wear down.

Take a Look at the Wheels

As brake pads become increasingly worn, they emit a dust that gathers on your car’s wheels. Once the brake pads are completely worn out, the dust disappears since there isn’t any more material to grind. If you’ve noticed dust on your wheels before but found it has mysteriously disappeared, it’s a warning your pads need to be replaced.

Inspect the Pad Itself

You should be able to spot the brake pad through the wheel. If it appears to be less than a quarter of an inch, it requires replacement. Depending on the type of pad, it might even have a slot that is used specifically for measuring wear. If the slot is gone, brake repairs are necessary.

Pay Attention to the Pedal & Steering Wheel

A vibrating brake pedal or steering wheel is a sign that pads have worn down. The damaged brake pads are unable to control the stopping process as well as they used to, ultimately causing vibrations and friction.

If your car is experiencing any of the above brake pad problems, contact A-1 Auto A/C Specialist & General Auto Repair. Due to their constant training, their auto mechanics in Honolulu, HI, offer prompt, high-quality brake repairs with an unmatched level of expertise. Their competitive pricing and top customer satisfaction have made them one of the top auto repair shops in the area. Visit them online to learn more about their brake repair services, or give them a call at (808) 836-2939 today to schedule an appointment.